It’s simple, and the result is truly worth it! Indulge in a homemade creamy baked mac and cheese—a perfect choice for a simple and delicious lunch or dinner that the whole family will relish. By baking a combination of fantastic ingredients, you set the stage for a delightful feast placed in the center of the table, inviting everyone to embark on a truly great taste experience.
There’s an undeniable charm to serving food directly from a baking dish, fostering a relaxed dining style. Let everyone take as much as they desire, add to their plate, and choose from options like a salad of fresh vegetables or other delectable accompaniments spread across the table.
Let’s come together to make this delicious baked macaroni and cheese. Afterwards, share your thoughts and experiences about how much you enjoyed it. Happy cooking!
Recipe
Ingredients in this recipe
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Step-by-step instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni or preferred pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. Note: I personally prefer elbow macaroni because it provides a pleasantly creamy and fluffy texture to the dish. It enhances the overall eating experience!
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add flour, salt, pepper, and optional mustard, onion, and garlic powder. Stir continuously to form a roux, which should take about 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk milk into the roux, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook and stir until the mixture thickens, approximately 6 to 8 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low. Add grated cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan to the sauce. Stir until the cheeses are melted, and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce, toss until well coated.
- Preheat the oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and grease a baking dish (9 x 13 inches) or a similar size based on what you have.
- Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- For a crunchy surface, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown, and the edges are bubbly.
- Let the baked mac and cheese cool for a few minutes and serve hot. Optionally, sprinkle a little more grated Parmesan on top.
Feel free to customize this homemade mac and cheese according to your preferences. Whether it’s extra cheese, additional spices, bacon cubes, or fresh tomatoes and herbs, make it your own! Share your best-baked mac and cheese variations and secret ingredients.
