Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
A comforting and nostalgic dish featuring rich cheese flavors and creamy pasta, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta and Base
- 8 oz Elbow Macaroni Classic pasta choice
- 2 cups Milk Forms the base of the sauce
- 4 Tbsp Butter Adds richness and flavor
- 2 Tbsp Flour Helps thicken the sauce
- 1 tsp Salt Essential for seasoning
- 1/2 tsp Pepper Essential for seasoning
Cheese
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded For rich creamy texture
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese, shredded Adds a stretchy quality
Topping
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs (optional) For a crispy topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil a large pot of salted water and add the elbow macaroni. Cook until just al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking until golden.
- Gradually whisk in milk and allow it to thicken.
- Stir in your cheeses until melted and creamy.
Assembly
- Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish.
- If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for an added crunch.
Baking
- Place in the oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Notes
For add-ins, consider mixing in sautéed vegetables like spinach or broccoli, or cooked bacon. Use good-quality cheese for the best flavor and allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking for easier serving.