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Baked Mac And Cheese

Baked Mac And Cheese
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Classic Baked Mac And Cheese is a comforting and creamy pasta dish featuring elbow macaroni baked in a rich cheddar cheese sauce with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for weeknights, family gatherings, or cozy indulgence, this recipe is simple to make, customizable, and delivers warm, cheesy satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 3 cups milk
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente—firm yet tender—to ensure the pasta doesn’t become mushy after baking.
  2. Make the Roux: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in flour to create a smooth paste. Cook the roux for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste but avoid browning it so the sauce remains light.
  3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Gradually add milk to the roux, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the pasta, then mix it thoroughly with the cheese sauce. This step ensures every bite is evenly coated with cheesy goodness.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar for strong flavor and good meltability, but feel free to combine with milder cheeses.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta to avoid sogginess; al dente is ideal.
  • Whisk constantly while making the roux and cheese sauce to prevent lumps.
  • Butter the baking dish to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
  • For a crispier crust, cover the dish with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking, then remove foil to brown the top.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta, baked pasta, easy dinner, crowd-pleaser

Find it online: https://jamescookes.com/baked-mac-and-cheese/