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The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

A creamy, cheesy baked mac and cheese topped with a delightful crispy breadcrumb layer, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Saucepan
  • mixing bowl
  • baking dish

Ingredients
  

Pasta

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni Cook according to package instructions.

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Feel free to experiment with different cheese types.
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded Use fresh cheese for better melting.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a nice flavor.
  • 3 cups milk
  • ¼ cup butter Melt over medium heat.
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour For thickening the sauce.
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder

Topping

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs For a crispy topping.

Instructions
 

Cooking Pasta

  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Making the Cheese Sauce

  • In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Once melted, stir in the flour, whisking constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux.
  • Gradually whisk in the milk while continuing to cook and stir until the mixture is thickened, about 5-7 minutes.

Adding Spices and Cheese

  • Stir in the salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  • Remove from heat and add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until thoroughly melted and smooth.

Combining Ingredients

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring the pasta is thoroughly coated.

Preparing for Baking

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Evenly top with breadcrumbs.

Baking

  • Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Serving

  • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your deliciously cheesy creation!

Notes

If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 8mg
Keyword Baked Mac and Cheese, Cheesy Pasta, comfort food, Easy Recipe, family recipe, The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese
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