Elevate your comfort food experience with this delightful recipe for baked mac and cheese. This dish boasts a creamy texture and rich flavor, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Here, I’ll guide you through the steps to create the best baked mac and cheese that will surely impress your guests.
Image of Baked Mac and Cheese
Below is a delicious representation of what you can expect from this recipe:
Ingredients
For this delectable baked mac and cheese, you will need the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your baked mac and cheese:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 2.5-quart baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the flour, whisking continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to keep stirring to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low, then stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and a generous amount of salt and pepper. Mix in the cheeses until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat all the pasta thoroughly.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for an extra crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavor and texture.
Enjoy your homemade baked mac and cheese as a side dish or a main course. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that is sure to be a hit at any table!
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