Introduction:
Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is the epitome of comfort food. This creamy, cheesy dish, with its golden crust, brings nostalgia and satisfaction in every bite. Perfect for gatherings or as a comforting family meal, it’s a timeless favorite.
The inspiration for this Baked Mac and Cheese recipe comes from cherished family dinners and the desire to create a dish that delivers creamy, cheesy goodness with a crispy topping. It’s been a staple that brings smiles and warmth to the table.
“Why This Dish Is Classic Comfort: Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese”
- Creamy and Cheesy: A harmonious blend of creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta.
- Versatile Dish: Ideal as a standalone meal or a crowd-pleasing side dish.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Few ingredients that result in a comforting and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (about 3 cups) elbow macaroni or pasta of your choice
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Cooking the Pasta:
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Making the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Combining Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Baking the Mac and Cheese:
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Optionally, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crispy crust.
- Baking:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
- Garnishing and Serving:
- Once baked, remove the mac and cheese from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes:
- Customize by adding cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, or sautéed vegetables to the mac and cheese for extra flavor and texture.
- For extra creaminess, you can add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese to the cheese sauce.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use different cheese varieties? A: Absolutely! Experiment with your favorite cheeses like Gruyère, Fontina, or Gouda for unique flavors.
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? A: Yes! Assemble the mac and cheese, cover, and refrigerate before baking. Bake when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of this Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese—a classic comfort dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!