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Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 82 reviews

This classic Baked Mac and Cheese features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a creamy, rich cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Topped with a crispy panko breadcrumb crust and baked to golden perfection, this comforting dish is perfect as a hearty main or a satisfying side.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Topping

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (reserved from above)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and set aside.
  2. Cook Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  3. Make Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes light golden to eliminate the raw flour taste.
  4. Create Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the whole milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking the sauce for about 5 minutes until it thickens. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.
  5. Add Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar, the shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce thoroughly, ensuring every piece is coated. Pour this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  7. Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top, then add the panko breadcrumbs to create a crispy crust.
  8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  9. Cool and Serve: Allow the baked mac and cheese to cool slightly for a few minutes before serving to set and enhance flavor.

Notes

  • For extra creaminess, substitute 1 cup of milk with heavy cream.
  • Use sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor or mild cheddar for a milder taste.
  • Panko breadcrumbs provide a crispier topping than regular breadcrumbs.
  • To add a smoky twist, sprinkle some smoked paprika or add crispy bacon bits before baking.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain the crispy topping.

Keywords: baked mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese, comfort food, creamy mac and cheese, easy dinner, cheesy pasta bake

Find it online: https://delishfamilyrecipe.com/baked-mac-and-cheese-recipe/