Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Homemade Baked Mac And Cheese Recipe. Creamy, cheesy, and baked to perfection, this dish is a favorite for both kids and adults. Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual dinner, this mac and cheese will surely be a hit. Enjoy the rich flavors and gooey texture that make this dish a timeless classic!
Ingredients
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 teaspoon mustard powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 350 calories, 15g of fat, 40g of carbohydrates, and 15g of protein. This nutritional information is based on one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour, whisking continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, continuing to whisk until smooth and thickened.
- Stir in the mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Remove from heat and mix in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni, stirring well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, such as shells or penne. For a healthier version, whole wheat pasta can be used. Additionally, you can mix different cheeses like gouda or fontina for a unique flavor twist.
Serving and Pairings
This delicious baked mac and cheese pairs well with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or a hearty stew.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much flour can make the sauce too thick.
- Not cooking the pasta al dente can result in mushy mac and cheese.
- Overbaking can dry out the dish.
- Forgetting to season the cheese sauce results in bland flavor.
- Using pre-shredded cheese may not melt as well as block cheese.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of cheeses for a deeper flavor.
- Add cooked bacon or vegetables for extra texture.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to set.
- Experiment with spices like paprika or cayenne for a kick.
FAQs
Can I make mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What type of cheese is best for mac and cheese?
A mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella works great, but you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda or fontina for different flavors.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Just ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
How do I make it creamier?
Adding more cheese or a splash of cream can enhance the creaminess of the dish.
Can I freeze baked mac and cheese?
Yes, it can be frozen. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing in an airtight container.
Conclusion
This Homemade Baked Mac And Cheese Recipe is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any table. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. Enjoy every bite!
Homemade Baked Mac And Cheese
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour, whisking continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, continuing to whisk until smooth and thickened.
- Stir in the mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Remove from heat and mix in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni, stirring well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
