Baked Macaroni And Cheese
Ah, baked macaroni and cheese… This is the dish that brings everyone to the table and instantly makes them feel right at home.
So, let’s get into how to make the best version of this delicious comfort dish! You ready?
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb elbow macaroni (about 4 cups)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups whole milk (don’t skimp, trust me!)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, but do it)
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, but oh-so-good)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (for a little zing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for that crispy top)
How to Make Baked Macaroni and Cheese
(Step-by-Step Instructions)
Step 1: Cook the macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your elbow macaroni and cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until it’s al dente (don’t overcook!).
Drain and set aside. Don’t worry, we’ll make it cheesy real soon.
Step 2: Make the creamy cheese sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to get rid of that floury taste.
Slowly put in the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly. This will thicken up into a creamy sauce in no time.
Keep stirring until it starts to simmer and looks silky smooth.
Step 3: Add the cheese
Now, it’s cheese time! Add in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
Stir until it’s all melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Taste it! Seriously, taste it. Adjust the seasoning if needed. You want it to be just right.
Step 4: Combine with the pasta
Add the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir to coat every noodle in cheesy goodness. This is where the magic happens.
Step 5: Bake it
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer your cheesy macaroni mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top. This will give your mac and cheese that perfect golden, crispy top we all love.
Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
If you like an extra crispy top, broil it for 2-3 minutes at the end. Keep an eye on it though, so it doesn’t burn. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbling and golden all over.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Take it out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and then serve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the pasta
You don’t want mushy noodles in your mac and cheese. Remember, cook them al dente! They’ll continue cooking in the cheese sauce and in the oven.
Not seasoning the sauce
Trust me, seasoning is key! Make sure you add enough salt and pepper. Don’t forget the garlic powder, mustard powder, and paprika, they add that extra oomph.
Using low-fat milk or cheese
Look, we’re making mac and cheese here. If you go low-fat, you’re missing out on the creamy, dreamy factor. Go for the full-fat milk and cheese.
Skipping the breadcrumbs
The crispy top is a must! If you skip the breadcrumbs, you’re missing one of the best parts of baked mac and cheese.
Not tasting the sauce
This is your moment! Taste that cheese sauce before mixing it in the pasta. It should be rich, cheesy, and flavorful. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
Recipe Best Tips
⑴ Mix up the cheese: While cheddar is the classic, adding a bit of Gruyère or Gouda can take your mac and cheese to the next level.
⑵ For extra creaminess: Try adding a dollop of cream cheese or a bit of sour cream to the cheese sauce. It’ll make it extra creamy and tangy.
⑶ Spice it up: Add some chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes for a spicy taste.
⑷ Make it ahead: This dish gets better if you make it ahead. Just assemble everything, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just put it in the oven and bake.
Serving Suggestions
This baked mac and cheese is great on its own, but here are some fun ideas to make it even better:
- Serve with a side salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect balance to all that cheesy goodness.
- Add some protein: Put in cooked chicken, bacon bits, or even some sautéed shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Pair with a buttery roll: There’s nothing like a warm roll to sop up the cheese sauce.
Storage and Freezing
① Storage
Leftovers? No problem. Let your mac and cheese cool down to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate it. It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
② Freezing
You can also freeze your mac and cheese if you want to keep it for later. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this recipe without the breadcrumbs?
A1: Of course! If you don’t want the crunchy topping, you can skip the breadcrumbs. But seriously, the crispy top is one of the best parts!
Q2: Can I use gluten-free pasta?
A2: Yes! Just substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free elbow macaroni, and you’re good to go.
Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A3: Absolutely! Just assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, bake it as directed.
Q4: Can I use other types of cheese?
A4: Yes! Mix it up with different cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda, or even Monterey Jack. Just make sure they melt well.
Q5: How can I make it spicier?
A5: Add some chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy taste.
Q6: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A6: Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian, so just leave out the meat, and you’re good to go.
Q7: How do I make it extra creamy?
A7: Try adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the cheese sauce. It makes it even more creamy and delicious.
Conclusion
And there you have it, your new favorite mac and cheese recipe! Super cheesy, creamy, and baked to perfection.
Perfect for any occasion, or just when you need a little comfort food in your life.
Now, go ahead and make it your own. Add your favorite twists, and make sure to share your version in the comments. Can’t wait to hear what you think!
You Might Also Want To Try
- Easy Banana Bread Recipe
- Chicken Sheet Pan And Potatoes For Dinner
- Overnight Oats Recipe With Peanut Butter
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Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook macaroni.
- Make creamy cheese sauce.
- Add cheese to the sauce.
- Combine pasta and cheese sauce.
- Bake until golden and bubbly.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Use full-fat dairy for the creamiest result.
- Mix up the cheese for different flavors.
- Add extra seasonings or toppings to make it your own!
