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Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.1 from 79 reviews

Classic baked mac and cheese recipe delivering creamy, cheesy pasta baked to perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping. This ultimate comfort food features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a velvety cheddar cheese sauce, finished with a golden crust providing a delightful texture contrast.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided 3 cups + 1 cup)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Topping

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for drizzling over breadcrumbs)

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Make Roux and Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a roux. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth. Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and mix well, ensuring every pasta piece is coated.
  4. Assemble: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese evenly on top, then distribute breadcrumbs across the surface. For an extra golden crust, drizzle a tablespoon of melted butter over the breadcrumbs.
  5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and cheese bubbles around the edges.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and enjoy the amazing cheesy pull!

Notes

  • For a richer taste, use whole milk or substitute half with cream.
  • Breadcrumb topping can be seasoned with a pinch of paprika or Italian herbs for added flavor.
  • Letting the dish rest after baking helps the cheese sauce thicken slightly for better servings.
  • Use sharp cheddar for maximum cheese flavor, or mix cheeses such as Gruyere or mozzarella if desired.
  • This recipe can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add extra baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Keywords: baked mac and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta, creamy mac and cheese, breadcrumb topping, sharp cheddar cheese, American pasta dish

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