Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Imagine a bubbling dish of baked mac and cheese, with golden crusty cheese on top that crackles just as you dig in. The aroma wafts through the air, making your mouth water in anticipation of that first cheesy bite. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a warm hug on a chilly evening or a nostalgic trip back to childhood.

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Every bite takes you back to family gatherings where laughter filled the air like the scent of melted cheese. Whether it’s a cozy weekday dinner or a festive holiday feast, baked mac and cheese always steals the show. Are you ready to dive into this creamy paradise?

My friends still rave about the time I brought this baked mac and cheese to a potluck; it vanished faster than my ability to say “seconds, please.”

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Elbow Macaroni: Use about 2 cups of uncooked elbow macaroni for the perfect bite-sized shape.
• Cheddar Cheese: A mix of sharp cheddar provides a robust flavor profile; go for freshly grated if possible.
• Milk: Whole milk works best for creaminess but feel free to use what you have on hand.
• Butter: Unsalted butter helps control the saltiness; it adds richness to the sauce.
• All-Purpose Flour: This thickens the sauce beautifully; don’t skip it!
• Panko Breadcrumbs: For that irresistible crunchy topping; they toast up perfectly in the oven.
• Salt & Pepper: Basic seasonings that elevate all flavors.
• Garlic Powder: A sprinkle adds depth without overpowering the cheese.
• Mustard Powder: Just a dash brings out all those cheesy flavors wonderfully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbling. Stir in flour until smooth to create a roux. Gradually whisk in milk until thickened.

Add Cheeses and Seasonings: Remove from heat and stir in half of your cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper until melted.

Combine Pasta with Sauce: Fold cooked macaroni into the cheesy mixture until well-coated. Be gentle so you don’t break those precious noodles.

Add Topping: Pour macaroni into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheddar on top followed by panko breadcrumbs for crunch.

Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Each step brings you closer to cheesy perfection; just follow those sensory cues like bubbling sounds and delightful aromas wafting from your oven!

Enjoy every moment as this baked mac and cheese fills your home with warmth and happiness!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta until al dente, then prepare your cheese sauce while it’s cooking. Combine everything together before baking for the ultimate creamy goodness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. You can also add veggies or meats for extra nutrition and taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for crispy edges or microwave for a quick fix, adding a splash of milk if needed.

Sharing a warm memory, I recall my niece’s delighted giggles after her first bite of this Baked Mac and Cheese – it was sheer joy on her face that made the effort worthwhile.

FAQ

What cheese is best for Baked Mac and Cheese?

Using a combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyère gives excellent flavor and creaminess.

Can I make Baked Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it, cover tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

How do I make my Baked Mac and Cheese crispy?

Top with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking to achieve that crunchy texture.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Baked Mac and Cheese

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• Author: Emma Taylor
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Indulge in this creamy, cheesy delight topped with a crunchy panko crust, perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp mustard powder

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Instructions

1. 1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour until smooth to create a roux. Gradually whisk in milk until thickened.
3. 3. Combine Cheeses and Seasonings: Remove from heat; stir in half of the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper until melted.
4. 4. Mix Pasta with Sauce: Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese mixture until well-coated.
5. 5. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the macaroni to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheddar on top followed by panko breadcrumbs.
6. 6. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 55mg