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Creamy Baked Mac Cheese

Creamy Baked Mac Cheese: 10 Steps to Blissful Comfort

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  • Author: Sadka
  • Total Time: 45-55 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food, featuring ooey-gooey cheese and tender pasta baked to golden perfection. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish.
  2. Cook Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Make Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
  4. Add Milk: Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and is smooth.
  5. Incorporate Spices: Stir in mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  6. Cheese Party: Remove from heat and add cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.
  7. Combine: Pour the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, mixing everything until well combined.
  8. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly into the greased baking dish.
  9. Add Toppings: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy finish.
  10. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  11. Cool: Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving, letting the flavors meld together.

Notes

  • Use high-quality cheeses for the best flavor.
  • Experiment with different cheddar types for varied taste profiles.
  • Try other pasta shapes like cavatappi or shells for texture variations.
  • Add fresh herbs like thyme or basil to the cheese sauce.
  • Broil for the last couple of minutes for an extra crispy topping, watching closely to prevent burning.
  • For a savory twist, mix in cooked bacon bits.
  • Add sautéed vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a vegetarian option.
  • Incorporate jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
  • Freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight and bake until heated through.
  • If the mac and cheese seems greasy, reduce butter or use lower-fat cheese.
  • Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (1/6th of recipe)
  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Sugar: N/A
  • Sodium: N/A
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: N/A
  • Unsaturated Fat: N/A
  • Trans Fat: N/A
  • Carbohydrates: N/A
  • Fiber: N/A
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: N/A

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Find it online: https://tollesrezept.com/creamy-baked-mac-cheese/