Baked Mac and Cheese
Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort dish, featuring tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with a crispy golden crust. This easy-to-make recipe brings nostalgic flavors to your table, making it perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. With rich cheese and a satisfying crunch, every bite promises warmth and happiness. Get ready to indulge in this delicious classic that will quickly become a family favorite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup plain or seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- 1. Cook the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook elbow macaroni until al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- 2. Make the roux: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about one minute until golden.
- 3. Add milk: Gradually whisk in milk until thickened (3-5 minutes).
- 4. Stir in cheeses: Reduce heat to low and mix in sharp cheddar until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- 5. Combine: Mix drained macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
- 6. Prepare for baking: Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs combined with Parmesan cheese.
- 7. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg