Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese recipe. This classic dish combines perfectly cooked pasta with a rich and velvety cheese sauce, baked to golden perfection for a meal that will satisfy your cravings and warm your soul.
Ingredients:
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk (preferably whole milk)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized ovenproof dish.
2. Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the elbow macaroni or your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter.
- Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly until it forms a smooth paste (a roux).
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and add 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder (if using). Adjust seasonings to taste.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy mixture.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Pour the creamy mac and cheese into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, melted 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Mix until the breadcrumbs are coated.
7. Add Topping and Bake:
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown, and the cheese is bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy your creamy baked mac and cheese.
With our Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese recipe, you can enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience. This traditional dish combines perfectly cooked pasta with a rich and velvety cheese sauce, which is baked to golden perfection. Whether for a family dinner, a potluck, or a special occasion, this irresistible creaminess and cheesy goodness will satisfy your cravings and warm your soul.