Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Posted by by Sara 1 year Ago 148 Views

Ingredients:

For the Pasta:

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
  • Salt (for pasta water)

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for an extra creamy texture)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese (optional for extra flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional for tang)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

  1. Make a roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, whisking constantly for about 1-2 minutes, until it forms a thick paste (this is your roux).
  2. Add the milk: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  3. Add the cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyère (if using) until fully melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

  1. Prepare the baking dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the cheesy pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  3. Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. If desired, sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the breadcrumbs for an extra cheesy topping.
  4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Let it cool: Remove from the oven and let the baked mac and cheese sit for 5 minutes to set. Serve warm, and enjoy!

Tips:

  • Extra creamy: For an even richer mac and cheese, add a bit of cream cheese to the cheese sauce.
  • Add-ins: Feel free to add cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or cooked broccoli to the mac and cheese for extra flavor.
  • Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Make ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time. Just assemble everything, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the foil and bake for 30-40 minutes at 350°F.

Nutrition (Per Serving – 1/8 of the recipe):

  • Calories: 400-450 kcal (depending on portion size and ingredients)
  • Protein: 15g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 6g