Baked Mac and Cheese

Why Make This Recipe

Baked Mac and Cheese is a comforting classic that everyone loves. It’s creamy, cheesy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you need a side dish for a family dinner or a quick meal for yourself, this recipe is simple and delicious. Plus, it’s easy to customize to fit your taste!

How to Make Baked Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth, then gradually whisk in milk. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
5. Mix cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese; sprinkle over the top.
7. Bake for 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

How to Serve Baked Mac and Cheese

Serve Baked Mac and Cheese hot from the oven. It’s great on its own, but you can also enjoy it as a side with grilled chicken, meatloaf, or a fresh salad. For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top before serving.

How to Store Baked Mac and Cheese

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Baked Mac and Cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven until heated through.

Tips to Make Baked Mac and Cheese

• For extra flavor, add some spices like paprika or garlic powder to the cheese sauce.
• Try mixing in cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.
• Use different types of cheese like mozzarella or Gouda for a different flavor.

Variation

You can easily change this recipe by adding cooked bacon, ham, or even lobster for a gourmet touch. Try different types of pasta shapes for a fun twist, too!

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! You can mix and match different cheeses to suit your taste, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or Gruyère.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What should I do if my cheese sauce is too thick?
If your cheese sauce is too thick, add a bit more milk and stir until you reach the desired consistency.

Baked Mac and Cheese

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Baked Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. Simple to make and easy to customize!

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth, then gradually whisk in milk. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
5. Mix cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese; sprinkle over the top.
7. Bake for 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

Notes

For extra flavor, add spices like paprika or garlic powder. You can also mix in cooked vegetables or different cheese types.

• Author: nevaeh-hall
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 30mg