Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe: A Creamy, Dreamy, Crowd-Pleasing Dish
Mac and cheese. Just the words conjure up images of comfort, nostalgia, and pure cheesy deliciousness. This baked mac and cheese recipe takes that classic dish to the next level, delivering a creamy, dreamy, and utterly irresistible experience that will have everyone asking for seconds (and thirds!). Get ready to impress your family and friends with this elevated take on a beloved favorite.
Why This Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe is the Best
This recipe isn't just another mac and cheese recipe; it's a masterpiece of cheesy goodness. Here's what sets it apart:
- Perfectly Creamy Sauce: We're not skimping on the cheese here! A rich and creamy cheese sauce is the foundation of this dish, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: We'll achieve perfectly al dente pasta every time with a simple trick.
- Crispy Breadcrumb Topping: A crunchy, golden brown breadcrumb topping adds a delightful textural contrast to the creamy interior.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, add-ins, or spices to create your own signature mac and cheese masterpiece.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe calls for simple, readily available ingredients. Stock your pantry and fridge with the following:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Cook the pasta: Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Important Tip: Don't overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook in the oven.
Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened. Stir in salt, pepper, and mustard.
Add the cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar and Gruyere cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine and bake: Stir in the cooked macaroni. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Top it off: In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
Bake until golden: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a little kick.
- Add some veggies: Stir in some cooked broccoli, cauliflower, or peas for a healthier twist.
- Bacon lovers rejoice: Crumble some cooked bacon on top for added flavor and texture.
- Different cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Fontina, or Gouda.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this baked mac and cheese as a comforting main course, a side dish, or even as an appetizer. It pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a simple salad.
This recipe is sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy!
