Creamy baked macaroni and cheese is a comforting and classic dish that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family meal. Here’s a delicious recipe to make it at home:
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces (about 340g) elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta shape
- 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups (600ml) whole milk
- 2 cups (200g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (100g) shredded Gruyere cheese (or Swiss cheese)
- 1/2 cup (50g) shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup (50g) breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk until smooth and well combined. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Gruyere cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings as needed.
- Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
- Bake the Macaroni and Cheese:
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- If desired, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese for a crunchy topping.
- **Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the macaroni and cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Serve:
- Remove the baked macaroni and cheese from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm as a comforting side dish or main course.
Tips:
- Feel free to customize the cheese blend according to your preferences. You can use different types of cheeses like mozzarella, fontina, or Monterey Jack.
- For added flavor, you can mix in cooked bacon, diced ham, or sautéed vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Leftover macaroni and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Enjoy this creamy baked macaroni and cheese as a comforting and satisfying dish that’s sure to be a hit with everyone!
