Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe is the culinary hug you didn’t know you needed. Imagine a bubbling dish of creamy, cheesy goodness, with each bite melting in your mouth like a warm embrace from your favorite aunt. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table, noses twitching in anticipation.
This dish isn’t just comfort food; it’s a celebration on a plate. I remember the first time I made it for my family’s movie night. As the cheesy goodness emerged from the oven, my kids’ eyes lit up like fireworks, and I felt like a culinary superhero. Baked Mac and Cheese is perfect for cozy nights in or casual gatherings with friends—it’s always a hit!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe is not only simple to prepare but also delivers rich, cheesy flavors that please everyone.
- Its golden crust and creamy interior make it visually appealing, ensuring all eyes are on this dish during mealtime.
- You can customize it easily by adding vegetables or proteins for extra nutrition.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings!
I once made this dish for a potluck, and let’s just say it was gone faster than you can say “cheesy dreams come true.” Everyone asked for the recipe, and I basked in the glory of my newfound fame as the “Mac and Cheese Guru.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Elbow Macaroni: Choose high-quality pasta; it holds onto the cheese sauce beautifully.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: A must-have for that tangy flavor; I usually mix mild and sharp for depth.
Milk: Whole milk works best for creaminess, but you can use 2% if you’re feeling adventurous.
Butter: Unsalted butter helps control the saltiness while adding richness.
All-Purpose Flour: This thickens the cheese sauce into its dreamy consistency without lumps.
Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy topping that adds texture.
Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): Just enough to enhance flavors without overpowering that glorious cheese.
For the Sauce:
Mustard Powder: Adds a subtle kick to elevate your cheese sauce; trust me, it’s magical!
Garlic Powder: For that extra layer of flavor that makes everyone wonder what your secret ingredient is.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water over medium-high heat. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions—usually about 7-8 minutes.
Create the Cheese Sauce: In another saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Once melted, whisk in flour until smooth and bubbly—this is called a roux! Slowly pour in milk while continuously whisking until thickened.
Add Cheese Galore: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese along with mustard powder and garlic powder until melted completely. The sauce should be velvety and deliciously cheesy.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain pasta well and return it to its pot. Pour cheese sauce over pasta, mixing gently until every noodle is coated in cheesy goodness.
Add Toppings: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs evenly; this creates that beautiful crunchy layer we all love!
Bake Until Golden: Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Now you have an irresistible Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe that will impress everyone at your dinner table! Enjoy every gooey bite as you relish in your culinary triumph.
You Must Know
- A baked mac and cheese recipe isn’t just comfort food; it’s a hug in a bowl!
- The creamy cheese sauce combined with perfectly cooked pasta makes for a dish that’s both nostalgic and satisfying.
- Plus, adding breadcrumbs gives it that delightful crunch.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve cheesy perfection, cook the pasta until al dente before mixing it with the sauce. This ensures the pasta retains its texture while absorbing all that gooey goodness during baking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with cheeses! Mixing cheddar, mozzarella, and even a hint of blue cheese adds depth. Toss in some bacon bits or steamed broccoli for added flavor and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave for convenience.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use freshly grated cheese for a creamier texture; pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-clumping agents.
- Bake uncovered for a crispy top, and don’t forget to season your pasta water well to infuse flavor from the start!
Cooking this baked mac and cheese recipe reminds me of family gatherings where laughter echoed alongside the clinking of forks against bowls. My aunt’s version was always a hit, inspiring me to create my own cheesy masterpiece.
FAQ
Can I use gluten-free pasta for this baked mac and cheese recipe?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works great; just ensure you adjust cooking time as needed.
What type of cheese is best for baked mac and cheese?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix in mozzarella or gouda for variety.
How can I make my baked mac and cheese creamy?
Add more milk or cream to your cheese sauce before baking for extra creaminess.
Baked Mac and Cheese
Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, delivering creamy, cheesy goodness in every mouthful. This delightful dish features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer. Perfect for cozy nights or festive gatherings, it’s sure to bring smiles to the table and warm hearts. With easy preparation and endless customization options, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- 1. Cook the macaroni: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- 2. Make the cheese sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux. Gradually add milk while whisking until thickened. Stir in cheddar cheese, mustard powder, and garlic powder until melted.
- 3. Combine: Mix the drained pasta with the cheese sauce until fully coated.
- 4. Prepare for baking: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs.
- 5. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: For added flavor, mix different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda. Incorporate cooked bacon bits or steamed broccoli for extra nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in the oven or microwave.
