This baked mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that is both creamy and cheesy. With a simple preparation method, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
The recipe features a rich cheese sauce combined with pasta and topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer for added texture.
Classic Comfort Food
Baked mac and cheese stands out as a quintessential comfort dish, loved by many for its creamy texture and cheesy flavor.
It evokes nostalgia, often reminding people of family gatherings and cozy evenings at home.
The combination of perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a rich cheese sauce creates a satisfying meal that warms the soul.
Ingredients for Success
The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet effective ingredients.
Elbow macaroni serves as the base, providing a delightful bite that pairs beautifully with the cheese sauce.
Sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses are the stars of the show, delivering a rich, creamy flavor that is hard to resist.
To enhance the dish, a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top adds a satisfying crunch, contrasting with the smoothness of the cheese.
A touch of garlic powder and seasoning ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
Preparation Process
Preparing baked mac and cheese is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners.
Start by cooking the macaroni until it reaches the perfect al dente texture, then drain and set aside.
Next, create a luscious cheese sauce by melting butter and whisking in flour, followed by milk and seasonings until thickened.
Once the sauce is ready, stir in the cheeses until they melt into a creamy blend.
Combine this sauce with the macaroni, ensuring every piece is coated in cheesy goodness.
Baking to Perfection
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish, ready for the oven.
Before baking, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle them generously over the top.
This step is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy topping that everyone loves.
Bake in a preheated oven until the top is beautifully browned and the dish is bubbling with cheesy goodness.
Allow it to cool slightly before serving, letting the flavors meld together for a truly delightful experience.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving baked mac and cheese, presentation matters.
A rustic ceramic bowl adds charm, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top provides a pop of color.
Place a fork beside the bowl, inviting everyone to dig in and enjoy this comforting dish.
This meal pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables, balancing the richness of the cheese with fresh flavors.
Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to please.
Nutrition and Enjoyment
Baked mac and cheese is not only delicious but also offers a satisfying meal option.
With approximately 400 calories per serving, it provides a hearty dose of carbohydrates and protein, making it a filling choice.
While it’s a treat, enjoying it in moderation can fit well into a balanced diet.
Ultimately, this warm and cheesy baked mac and cheese is a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table.
Its creamy texture, combined with the crispy topping, creates a delightful contrast that makes each bite memorable.
Gather around and enjoy this classic dish, perfect for any occasion!
Simple Baked Mac and Cheese
This easy baked mac and cheese combines cooked macaroni with a creamy cheese sauce made from cheddar and mozzarella. It takes about 30 minutes to prepare and bake, serving 4 to 6 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 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
- Add Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
- 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: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 to 6 servings
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 40g