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Baked Mac and Cheese

Baked Mac and Cheese
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A creamy, cheesy baked mac and cheese recipe that’s quick, simple, and perfect for a comforting meal any night. This classic dish features tender elbow macaroni smothered in a luscious sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese sauce, topped with golden breadcrumbs, baked to bubbly perfection. Ideal for family dinners, customizable with proteins or veggies, and suitable for gluten-free adaptations.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (or gluten-free pasta for gluten-free version)

Cheese Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
  • 3 cups milk (whole milk recommended, or a mix of milk and cream for extra creaminess)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Topping

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (extra for topping)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth paste and cook for about 1 minute to remove raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly, and bring to a simmer until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  3. Add the Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in shredded sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated, then pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
  5. Add the Topping and Bake: Sprinkle breadcrumbs and extra shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. 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 classic tangy flavor and smooth melting.
  • Do not overcook pasta; slightly undercook to prevent mushiness after baking.
  • Whisk flour and butter thoroughly before adding milk to ensure a smooth roux without lumps.
  • Toast breadcrumbs lightly in butter before topping for extra crunch.
  • Let baked mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving to set the sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked mac and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta bake, gluten-free mac and cheese, family dinner recipe

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