Baked Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe for Cheese Lovers

Baked Mac and Cheese is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any table. This creamy, cheesy dish has roots that trace back to the 18th century, with origins in Italy and a significant presence in American cuisine. Over the years, it has evolved into a beloved staple, often gracing family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday feasts. What I adore about Baked Mac and Cheese is its perfect blend of gooey cheese and tender pasta, creating a delightful texture that is both satisfying and indulgent.

People love this dish not only for its rich flavor but also for its convenience; it can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you prefer a classic recipe or enjoy experimenting with gourmet ingredients, Baked Mac and Cheese is sure to please everyone at the table. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that promises to become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2% for creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Preparing the Pasta

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your mac and cheese is baked to perfection once we’re ready to pop it in. 2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt to the water to enhance the flavor of the pasta. 3. Once the water is boiling, add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 7-8 minutes. You want it slightly firm since it will continue to cook in the oven. 4. After the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and set it aside. I like to rinse it briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from becoming mushy.

Making the Cheese Sauce

5. In the same pot (or a large saucepan), melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Be careful not to let it brown; we just want it melted. 6. Once the butter is melted, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken our cheese sauce. 7. Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk while whisking constantly. This helps to avoid any lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, which should take about 3-5 minutes. 8. Once the sauce has thickened, stir in 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous. This adds a nice depth of flavor to the sauce. 9. Now, it’s time to add the cheese! Stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy. 10. Finally, season the cheese sauce with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Taste it to make sure it’s to your liking; you can always adjust the seasoning if needed.

Combining Pasta and Cheese Sauce

11. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine, ensuring that every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious cheese sauce. 12. If you want to add a little extra flavor, you can mix in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese at this stage. It adds a lovely nuttiness to the dish.

Preparing for Baking

13. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. 14. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. 15. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. This will create a crunchy topping for our mac and cheese. 16. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. This will give it a lovely golden crust when baked.

Baking the Mac and Cheese

17. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. 18. If you want an extra crispy top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Serving the Baked Mac and Cheese

19. Once it’s out of the oven, let the mac and cheese sit

Conclusion:

In summary, this Baked Mac and Cheese recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves comfort food. The creamy, cheesy goodness combined with a crispy topping creates a delightful contrast that will have you coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a family gathering or as the star of a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. For a fun twist, consider adding in some cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables like spinach or broccoli to elevate the flavors even further. You can also experiment with different types of cheese—sharp cheddar, gouda, or even a sprinkle of blue cheese can add a unique touch to your baked mac and cheese. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you come up with. I’d love to hear how your baked mac and cheese turns out! So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s not just a meal, but a warm hug on a plate. Happy cooking! Print