Baked Mac & Cheese
This ultimate comfort food combines tender pasta with a creamy cheese sauce, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings!
Ingredients
Pasta Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese Use freshly shredded cheese for best results.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Reserve half for layering.
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- 4 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional) For garnish.
Topping Ingredients
- 1 cup breadcrumbs For topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour, whisking continuously to form a roux. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and light golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk as the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the sauce has thickened, add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt gently.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring well to ensure every piece of pasta is coated in the velvety cheese sauce.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour half of the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle a layer of the remaining Parmesan cheese, then add the rest of the mac and cheese on top.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter and a pinch of paprika (if using). Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the Baked Mac & Cheese rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a richer cheese sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or sour cream. To store leftovers, let the Baked Mac & Cheese cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.