If you’re in search of the Best Mac N Cheese Recipe, look no further! This creamy baked macaroni and cheese is not just any dish; it’s the ultimate comfort food that will bring joy to your dinner table.
This recipe combines a rich cheese sauce with perfectly cooked macaroni, making it a staple in any household. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll understand why it’s known as the Best Macaroni And Cheese.
Imagine a bubbling casserole of Baked Mac And Cheese, the cheese homemade and gooey, enveloping every macaroni piece in warm, cheesy bliss. This is not just another macaroni cheese recipe—this is pure satisfaction in every bite.
What makes this Baked Macaroni And Cheese stand out is its creamy texture and deep flavor, making it a must-try dish. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish will quickly become a favorite.
The Best Macaroni and Cheese Recipe You’ll Ever Make
This Baked Macaroni and Cheese features a velvety cheese sauce made from a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella. The result? A rich, indulgent meal with a perfect golden crust that’s crispy on top and creamy underneath. It’s a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Macaroni: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese is melted and smooth.
- Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing until well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Optional Topping: If desired, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top for a crunchy texture.
- Bake: Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade baked mac and cheese!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
The Allure of Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Indulging in a warm bowl of baked macaroni and cheese brings a sense of comfort that few dishes can match. This classic choice stands as a favorite in many households, celebrated for its creamy texture and rich flavor.
The Best Mac N Cheese Recipedeserves a spot on your dinner table. The gooey cheese that clings to every piece of macaroni provides pure satisfaction in every mouthful. With its simple yet delightful combination of ingredients, this dish can quickly become a go-to for both family gatherings and quiet nights in.
A Cheesy Delight
At the heart of thisBaked Mac And Cheese Recipelies a velvety cheese sauce crafted from the perfect blend of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella. This combination results in a rich and indulgent flavor profile that appeals to all ages.
The golden-brown crust, achieved through baking, adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior. It’s no wonder this dish is often referred to as theBest Macaroni And Cheeseby those who have tasted it.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The key to achieving a delicious baked macaroni and cheese rests in its ingredients. Elbow macaroni serves as the foundation, while a blend of cheeses elevates the dish to new heights.
Combining sharp cheddar with mozzarella creates a harmonious balance of flavors. Adding a touch of mustard and garlic powder enhances the overall taste, ensuring every bite is memorable. This recipe also allows room for personalization, making it adaptable for various preferences.
The Magic of Preparation
Preparation for this dish is straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to tackle it with ease. Start by cooking the macaroni until it’s al dente, which ensures the pasta maintains its shape throughout the baking process.
Next, the cheese sauce is created by melting butter and mixing it with flour to form a roux, followed by gradually whisking in milk. The result is a creamy base that will envelop each macaroni piece in cheesy goodness.
The Perfect Bake
Once the macaroni is combined with the cheese sauce, transferring the mixture to a baking dish is the next step. For those seeking extra texture, a sprinkle of breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top adds a delightful crunch.
Baking until golden and bubbly transforms the dish into a comforting masterpiece that invites everyone to gather around the table. Allow it to cool slightly before serving to enjoy the full flavors.
Serving Suggestions
ThisBaked Macaroni And Cheeseis versatile enough to shine as a main dish but can also be paired with various sides. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of flavors and textures will leave everyone asking for seconds, solidifying its place as a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire.