Description
Baked mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that combines creamy cheese sauce with tender pasta, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually add milk while whisking until thickened.
- Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted, then season with salt and pepper.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring all pasta is coated.
- In a small bowl, mix the remaining cheese with breadcrumbs and set aside.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish, top with the breadcrumb mixture, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables.
- Experiment with different cheeses for a unique taste.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: baked mac and cheese, comfort food, cheese sauce, pasta dish