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Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

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4.8 from 67 reviews

This classic baked macaroni and cheese features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich, creamy sharp cheddar cheese sauce, topped with buttery breadcrumbs baked to golden perfection. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish ideal for family dinners or cozy occasions.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Topping

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
  3. Make Sauce Smooth and Creamy: Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to cook and stir until the sauce thickens. Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce thoroughly to ensure all pasta is coated evenly. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
  5. Add Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese in the baking dish.
  6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the topping turns golden brown and the dish is bubbly.

Notes

  • For a creamier texture, use whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce.
  • Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a slight kick.
  • Using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs will give a crunchier topping.
  • Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow it to set before serving.

Find it online: https://forkoria.com/baked-macaroni-and-cheese-recipe/