This baked mac and cheese is a comforting dish that combines creamy cheese sauce with tender pasta, baked to perfection. It’s a favorite for family dinners and gatherings.
The recipe is easy to follow and yields a rich, cheesy flavor that can be customized with additional ingredients like breadcrumbs, bacon, or vegetables.
Overview of Baked Mac and Cheese
Baked mac and cheese is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This version features elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, topped with a delightful layer of crispy breadcrumbs.
Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare. With a total time of about 45 minutes, it serves 6-8 people, making it ideal for sharing.
Ingredients for a Creamy Delight
To create this mouthwatering baked mac and cheese, you will need a few essential ingredients. The star of the dish is the elbow macaroni, which provides the perfect base for the cheese sauce.
Sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses combine to create a rich flavor profile, while butter and flour form the foundation of the creamy sauce. Seasonings like garlic powder and onion powder add depth, and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top ensures a satisfying crunch.
Preparation Steps
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside. Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan and whisk in flour to create a roux.
Gradually add milk to the roux, stirring until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and mix in the shredded cheeses until melted and smooth. Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated.
Baking to Perfection
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. The aroma that fills your kitchen during baking is sure to whet your appetite!
Serving Suggestions
Once out of the oven, let the baked mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables, balancing the richness of the cheese.
For an extra touch, garnish with a sprinkle of parsley to add a pop of color. Serve with a fork ready to dig into the creamy, cheesy goodness that awaits!
Customizing Your Dish
This baked mac and cheese recipe is versatile and can be tailored to suit your taste. Consider adding cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or even different types of cheese to create your own signature version.
Feel free to experiment with spices or herbs to enhance the flavor. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity!
Delicious Baked Mac and Cheese
This mac and cheese features elbow macaroni coated in a creamy cheese sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer. The dish takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 6-8 people.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well to coat the pasta evenly.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade baked mac and cheese!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 35g