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Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) Recipe

Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 6 reviews

This Baked Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and cheesy comfort food classic, featuring a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses baked to golden perfection with a crunchy panko breadcrumb topping.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Topping

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package directions until just al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Make roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture turns a light golden color, to form a roux.
  4. Add milk and season: Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika for flavor.
  5. Add cheese to sauce: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, the shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  6. Combine pasta and cheese sauce: Mix the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce ensuring all noodles are well coated. Pour this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  7. Add topping and bake: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the macaroni, then top with 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs for a crispy crust. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  8. Cool and serve: Allow the baked mac and cheese to cool slightly before serving so it sets nicely, making it easier to portion and enjoy.

Notes

  • For a crispier topping, you can mix the panko breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter before sprinkling on top.
  • To make this dish ahead, assemble and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking; add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baked cold.
  • Substitute whole milk with 2% milk for a slightly lighter version without sacrificing too much creaminess.
  • Feel free to add cooked bacon bits or sautéed onions for extra flavor and texture.
  • Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour if you need a gluten-free option.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, cheesy pasta bake, comfort food, baked macaroni and cheese

Find it online: https://nataliereeve.com/baked-mac-and-cheese-recipe-cheesy-and-creamy-recipe/