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Classic Baked Mac and Cheese

Classic Baked Mac and Cheese
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Classic Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food featuring creamy, cheesy pasta with a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping. Made with simple pantry staples and straightforward steps, it delivers a rich, velvety cheese sauce and a crunchy crust, perfect for family meals, gatherings, or a cozy night in. This recipe is easily customizable to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni

Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)

Topping

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente, tender but still with a slight bite. Drain well and set aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.
  2. Make the Roux: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in the flour until a smooth paste forms. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste and avoid browning.
  3. Create the Cheese Sauce: Gradually add milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer to thicken. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional mustard powder.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the drained macaroni and gently fold together until each piece is fully coated with the creamy sauce.
  5. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter to ensure even toasting. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mac and cheese for a crispy finish.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar for the best melting and bold flavor.
  • Cook pasta slightly under al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.
  • Freshly grate cheese instead of using pre-shredded for smoother melting.
  • Add milk gradually when making sauce to prevent lumps and achieve a creamy texture.
  • Rest after baking to allow the sauce to thicken and settle.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, comfort food, creamy mac and cheese, cheesy pasta, classic recipe

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