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Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Baked Macaroni and Cheese

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  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Looking for the best Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe? This easy and simple comfort food classic is quick to prepare and packed with creamy cheddar flavor. It is perfect for family dinners, holidays, potlucks, or cozy weekend meals. With a golden crispy topping and rich homemade cheese sauce, this healthy homemade idea is great for gatherings and meal prep. Save this best cheesy casserole for any special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup all purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 16 ounces elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan melt 4 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup all purpose flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes stirring constantly to form a smooth roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in 3 cups whole milk followed by 1 cup heavy cream. Cook while whisking for 5 to 7 minutes until thickened and smooth.
  4. Reduce heat to low and stir in 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar and 1 cup mozzarella in batches until fully melted. Season with 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
  5. Fold the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce ensuring all pasta is evenly coated. If sauce seems too thick add 1/4 cup warm milk for extra creaminess.
  6. Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with 1 cup breadcrumbs and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and bubbling. Rest 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Shred cheese fresh for best melting results.
  • Undercook pasta slightly to prevent mushy texture.
  • Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter for extra crisp topping.
  • Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 780 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 16 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg

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Find it online: https://quickfamilyrecipe.com/baked-macaroni-and-cheese/