The rich aroma of creamy baked mac and cheese fills the air, wrapping you in a warm embrace. Picture this: golden pasta dancing in a velvety cheese sauce, bubbling and crisping under the broiler—a dish that promises to be the ultimate comfort food.
Every bite is like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening, evoking memories of family gatherings and lazy weekends. Creamy baked mac and cheese is more than just food; it’s a hug on a plate, perfect for movie nights or potlucks where everyone fights over the last spoonful.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy baked mac and cheese recipe combines simplicity with incredible flavor, making it ideal for even novice cooks
- It features a delightful blend of cheeses for a rich and satisfying taste
- The gorgeous golden crust adds visual appeal, making it the star of any meal
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite add-ins like bacon or veggies!
I still remember my cousin’s face lighting up when I served this at our family reunion; it was like I had given him the Holy Grail of comfort food.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Elbow Macaroni: Use about 1 pound of elbow macaroni; cook until al dente for the best texture.
Butter: Two tablespoons will help create that rich flavor base in your cheese sauce.
All-Purpose Flour: A quarter cup serves as the thickening agent for your creamy sauce.
Milk: Whole milk works best for creaminess; use about 4 cups to create that luscious texture.
Cheddar Cheese: A mix of sharp and mild cheddar (about 3 cups) creates the perfect cheesy flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Add 1 cup of grated Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor and richness.
Salt and Pepper: To taste; these simple seasonings elevate your dish to new heights.
Breadcrumbs: About one cup for that crunchy topping that everyone loves!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, usually around 7-8 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
Create the Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. Once melted, whisk in flour until smooth, cooking for about 1 minute until bubbly but not browned.
Add Milk and Cheese: Gradually add 4 cups of milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until slightly thickened. Stir in both cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Fold the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce using a spatula until well coated. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
Add Topping and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs for crunch, then bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
**Serve It Up**: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this creamy baked mac and cheese alongside your favorite side dishes or as a stand-alone delight!
There you have it! Your creamy baked mac and cheese is ready to steal the show at any gathering or cozy dinner at home. Now go forth, dear cook, armed with cheesy goodness!
You Must Know
- The best part about creamy baked mac and cheese is its versatility
- You can switch up cheeses or add proteins like bacon or chicken for a hearty twist
- The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make everyone eager for dinner!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
For optimal results, cook the pasta until al dente, prepare the cheese sauce while it cooks, then combine everything and bake until bubbly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack, and consider adding breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for crispy edges or microwave for convenience.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve ultimate creaminess, use a mix of cheeses such as cheddar and mozzarella
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should remain firm before baking
- Adding a sprinkle of nutmeg enhances flavor without overpowering the dish
Memories of family gatherings come rushing back whenever I make creamy baked mac and cheese; it always disappears faster than I can serve it!
FAQ
What type of cheese is best for creamy baked mac and cheese?
A blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and gouda creates a rich, creamy texture.
Can I make creamy baked mac and cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance and bake just before serving.
How do I prevent my mac and cheese from being too dry?
Ensure your cheese sauce is sufficiently creamy before baking to keep it moist.
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
Creamy baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, enveloping you in its rich, cheesy goodness. Imagine golden elbow macaroni coated in a velvety cheese sauce, topped with a crisp breadcrumb crust that adds the perfect crunch. This simple yet satisfying dish is ideal for family gatherings, movie nights, or potlucks where everyone will be clamoring for seconds. With its blend of sharp and mild cheeses, this recipe guarantees a delicious taste that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (mix of sharp and mild)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook elbow macaroni until al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Make the roux: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour until smooth; cook for 1 minute.
- Add milk and cheese: Gradually whisk in milk until thickened. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Fold macaroni into the cheese sauce; season with salt and pepper.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
