mac and chese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best mac and chese recipe

I love a good mac and cheese recipe, and this one is a family favorite. It’s a classic comfort food that never fails to bring a smile to my face. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s always a hit with my kids and husband.

There’s something special about the creamy pasta, the crunchy topping, and the nostalgic feel of this dish that just can’t be beat. As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to make mac and cheese. It’s a great way to get dinner on the table quickly, especially on weeknights when everyone is hungry and impatient.

Plus, it’s so versatile – you can add in different types of cheese, vegetables, or meats to suit your taste. One of the things I love about mac and cheese is its rich history. This dish has been around since ancient times, with various cultures contributing their own twist to the recipe.

From the Greeks to the Romans, everyone has had their own version of macaroni with cheese sauce. The technique behind making great mac and cheese is all about creating a smooth, creamy sauce that coats each piece of pasta perfectly. It’s not just about throwing some noodles in a pot and hoping for the best – you need to take your time, stir constantly, and use high-quality ingredients to get that perfect texture.

In our household, mac and cheese is more than just a meal – it’s an experience. We love gathering around the table together, sharing stories and laughter as we enjoy this comforting dish.

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

4.7 from 1148 votes

A comforting classic dish featuring a creamy cheese sauce baked to perfection over elbow macaroni. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz elbow macaroni

For the Cheese Sauce

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder

For the Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
4Drain and set aside.
5In a saucepan, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
6Add flour and whisk to form a roux.
7Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns light brown.
8Gradually add milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
9Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.
10Remove from heat.
11Stir in cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
12If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
13In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
14Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
15In a 9×9 inch baking dish, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce.
16Stir well to ensure the pasta is fully coated.
17Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
18Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
19If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Saucepan
Whisk
9×9 inch baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Add cooked vegetables such as peas or broccoli for extra nutrition.

Watch Video Of How Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Works

Mac and cheese is a timeless classic that is always a good idea for any occasion. It is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, and it is easy to make in large batches for family gatherings or potlucks.

It is also a great dish for meal prepping because it can be made in advance and reheated easily. I highly recommend this recipe for anyone looking for a comforting and delicious meal that the whole family will love.

You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, be sure to add a little milk to help restore the creamy texture.

You can also get creative with toppings and add-ins to make it your own. It is a dish that is sure to please, no matter the occasion.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of pasta you like for this recipe – but elbow macaroni is traditional because it holds onto the cheesy sauce perfectly.

Q: Can I substitute different types of cheese?

Of course! Feel free to mix and match different types of cheese to create your perfect blend.

Q: How do I prevent the macaroni from sticking together?

Just make sure you cook your pasta al dente – then drain it thoroughly before adding it to the cheesy sauce.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare all the components separately ahead of time – but assemble and bake just before serving.

Q: What if my cheese sauce doesn’t come out smooth?

No worries! Just whisk constantly as you’re heating up your sauce – or add in some extra milk or cream if it gets too thick.

Similar Posts