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Baked Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and baked to perfection, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Whether it's a family dinner or a potluck, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let's dive into this cheesy goodness!
What You Will Need to Make This Dish
What you will need to make baked macaroni and cheese
- Elbow macaroni: Provides the classic pasta base, perfect for holding the creamy cheese sauce in every bite.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, velvety sauce when combined with flour and milk.
- All-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce, ensuring it clings to the macaroni for a satisfying texture.
- Milk: Creates a creamy base for the cheese sauce, balancing the richness of the butter and cheese.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce, giving the dish its signature cheesy flavor and gooey texture.
What Tools/Instruments Will Be Needed
What tools/instruments will be needed to make Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
- Saucepan: Used to make the cheese sauce by melting butter, adding flour, and gradually whisking in milk.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing the flour and butter smoothly into the milk without lumps.
- Baking dish: Holds the macaroni and cheese mixture while it bakes in the oven.
- Colander: Drains the cooked macaroni before combining it with the cheese sauce.
- Wooden spoon: Helps stir the cheese sauce and macaroni together evenly.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
A classic comfort food dish that's creamy, cheesy, and baked to perfection.
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Ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups Elbow Macaroni
- 1/4 cup Butter
- 1/4 cup All-purpose Flour
- 2 cups Milk
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, and cook until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes:
For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the macaroni before baking.
Nutrition value:
Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg
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Make Ahead / Freezing Instructions
Make Ahead Instructions
- Prepare the macaroni and cheese as directed, but don't bake.
- Let it cool completely.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
- Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- When ready to bake, remove from fridge, uncover, and bake as directed.
Freezing Instructions
- Prepare the dish but skip baking.
- Cool completely.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To bake, thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly, about 25-30 minutes.
For a creamy twist, add a dollop of sour cream to the cheese sauce before mixing it with the macaroni. It adds a tangy richness that elevates the dish.
FAQ About This Recipe
FAQ:
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like penne or shells works well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely, just prepare it up to the baking step, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but a mix of cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella adds great flavor.
How do I get a crispy top?
Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking.
Can I add other ingredients?
Sure, cooked bacon, ham, or veggies like broccoli make great additions.
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