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Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 138 reviews
  • Author: Simon
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese recipe features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Topped with a golden, crunchy panko breadcrumb crust, this comforting dish is baked to perfection, offering a delightful blend of creamy and crispy textures ideal for a cozy meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Topping

  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure the mac and cheese doesn’t stick during baking.
  2. Cook Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until it is tender but still firm to the bite, following the package instructions. Drain thoroughly and set it aside.
  3. Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and cook for about 60 seconds until it forms a fragrant paste, being careful not to brown it.
  4. Add Milk: Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk while continuously whisking to avoid any lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  5. Incorporate Cheeses and Seasonings: Lower the heat and add shredded sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce. Stir until the cheeses melt completely. Season the sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to your taste.
  6. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Carefully fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, making sure every piece is well coated with the creamy mixture.
  7. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the cheesy macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly for consistent baking.
  8. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and the remaining 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pasta in the baking dish.
  9. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top becomes golden brown, crispy, and the edges are bubbling.
  10. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the mac and cheese rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the sauce to set. Serve warm as a hearty main course or a delicious side dish.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use whole milk but 2% milk works well too.
  • Ensuring the roux is cooked for about a minute prevents a raw flour taste in your sauce.
  • You can substitute panko breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or regular breadcrumbs.
  • Resting the baked mac and cheese helps in better slicing and serving.
  • Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a subtle warmth.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: baked mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, cheesy pasta bake, comfort food, homemade mac and cheese

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Find it online: https://kitchenofsimon.com/creamy-baked-mac-and-cheese-recipe/