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Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe for Cozy Nights In

A quick and easy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe that wraps you in comfort, featuring rich cheddar and gooey mozzarella.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Elbow Macaroni Can substitute with shells or cavatappi.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese Substitute with mild cheddar for a gentler taste.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Can use Gouda for a more intense flavor.
  • 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano can be used for a sharper taste.
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Salted butter can be used; adjust salt accordingly.
  • 0.25 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour is a great substitute.
  • 3 cups Whole Milk Half-and-half can lend even richer flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust based on the saltiness of the cheese.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper White pepper can be used for a more understated flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Paprika Try smoked paprika for a unique twist.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Creates a lovely crunchy topping.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large saucepan
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until just al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain and let it steam dry.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add ¼ cup of all-purpose flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
  4. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of whole milk, stirring until thickened (about 5 minutes). Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
  5. Lower the heat and mix in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
  6. Stir the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce until well-coated. Pour into the greased baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle the reserved cheeses over the top, followed by a layer of panko breadcrumbs. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown.
  8. Cool for 5 minutes before serving. Scoop out portions and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUCalcium: 400mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For the best results, use a blend of cheeses and cook the macaroni just until al dente. Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

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