This baked macaroni and cheese is a comforting and creamy dish that is loved by both kids and adults. Made with a blend of cheeses and a crispy breadcrumb topping, it delivers a satisfying combination of flavors and textures.
The recipe is simple and can be prepared in about an hour. You can customize it by adding ingredients like cooked bacon, vegetables, or different types of cheese to suit your taste.
Overview of Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Baked macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort dish that appeals to a wide range of palates. This dish combines al dente pasta with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, creating a satisfying meal that is both filling and indulgent.
The combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses gives this recipe a delightful flavor profile, while the crispy breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Preparing baked macaroni and cheese is a straightforward process that can be completed in about 50 minutes. With just 10 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve.
This recipe yields approximately six servings, making it an ideal choice for a small gathering or a cozy family meal. The simplicity of the recipe allows for easy customization, so feel free to add your favorite ingredients to enhance the dish.
Ingredients That Make It Special
The key ingredients in this baked macaroni and cheese include elbow macaroni, a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, and a few pantry staples like butter, flour, and milk. These components come together to create a creamy sauce that envelops the pasta.
The addition of seasonings such as garlic powder and onion powder elevates the flavor, while the breadcrumb topping, mixed with melted butter, provides a golden, crispy finish that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.
Cooking Process
The cooking process begins with boiling the macaroni until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. Once drained, the pasta is combined with a homemade cheese sauce made by melting butter, whisking in flour, and gradually adding milk and cheese.
After mixing the pasta with the cheese sauce, the mixture is transferred to a baking dish and topped with seasoned breadcrumbs. Baking in a preheated oven allows the top to become golden brown and bubbly, creating an inviting appearance.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked to perfection, let the macaroni and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
For an extra touch, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional cheese before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a pop of flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
Variations and Customizations
This baked macaroni and cheese recipe is versatile, allowing for various customizations to suit individual tastes. You might choose to incorporate cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or even different types of cheese to create a unique version of this classic dish.
Experimenting with spices or adding a dash of hot sauce can also introduce a new dimension of flavor. Whether you prefer a traditional approach or a more adventurous twist, the possibilities are endless with this beloved recipe.
Easy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
This baked macaroni and cheese features al dente pasta coated in a rich cheese sauce, topped with golden breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish. The recipe serves about 6 people and takes approximately 50 minutes from start to finish.
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
- 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 a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of 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 cheeses until melted.
- Combine: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure all the pasta is coated.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade baked macaroni and cheese!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 36g