This baked macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food dish that features tender pasta enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
The recipe is simple to follow and can be customized with different types of cheese or add-ins like cooked bacon or vegetables.
Classic Comfort Food
Baked macaroni and cheese stands as a beloved dish in many households, cherished for its comforting qualities and satisfying flavors.
The combination of tender pasta enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
This recipe captures the essence of home-cooked goodness, making it a staple for family gatherings and cozy dinners.
Perfectly Cooked Pasta
The foundation of this dish is the elbow macaroni, which should be cooked al dente to maintain its texture.
Boiling the pasta in salted water enhances its flavor, ensuring that each bite is delicious.
Once drained, the macaroni is ready to be combined with the rich cheese sauce, setting the stage for a delightful culinary experience.
Rich and Creamy Cheese Sauce
The cheese sauce is where the magic happens.
A blend of cheddar and mozzarella creates a smooth, velvety texture that clings to the pasta perfectly.
By gradually whisking in milk and incorporating seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder, the sauce transforms into a flavorful coating that elevates the dish.
Golden Breadcrumb Topping
No baked macaroni and cheese is complete without a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Mixing breadcrumbs with melted butter adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta beneath.
Sprinkling this mixture over the cheese sauce before baking ensures a golden-brown finish that is both visually appealing and delicious.
Simple Preparation Steps
Preparing this dish is straightforward and can be accomplished in under an hour.
After cooking the pasta and making the cheese sauce, simply combine the two and transfer them to a greased baking dish.
With a quick bake in the oven, the dish transforms into a bubbling, cheesy delight ready to be served.
Serving Suggestions
This baked macaroni and cheese can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various sides.
A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables can complement the richness of the dish, adding balance to the meal.
For those looking to personalize their serving, consider adding cooked bacon or vegetables for an extra layer of flavor.
Easy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
This macaroni and cheese features elbow macaroni cooked al dente, combined with a rich cheese sauce made from a blend of cheddar and mozzarella, and baked until bubbly and golden. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious baked macaroni and cheese!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 40g