Best Ever Baked Macaroni & Cheese
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Baked macaroni and cheese is often a nostalgic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. My enduring love for this recipe comes from countless family gatherings, where the aroma of creamy cheese and perfectly baked pasta filled the air, inviting everyone to indulge. This version is especially special because it strikes that perfect balance between creamy and cheesy without being overly heavy. Whether you’re making it for a festive occasion or just a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone, including picky eaters!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What makes baked macaroni and cheese a favorite in countless homes? For starters, it’s incredibly simple to whip up and can be made with pantry staples. This recipe calls for just a handful of ingredients to create a rich, cheesy delight that’s both kid-approved and adult-friendly. It transcends meal times, fitting seamlessly into family brunches or holiday feasts and even acting as the ultimate comfort food during rainy days.
"I can’t believe how easy this was! The combination of cheeses made it so rich and delicious. This is now my go-to recipe for family gatherings!" – Sarah, a devoted mac and cheese lover.
The Cooking Process Explained
Making the best ever baked macaroni and cheese requires just a few straightforward steps. Prepping the ingredients and following the instructions will ensure you achieve a bubbly, golden masterpiece. You’ll start by cooking the pasta, then move on to creating a cheesy sauce that brings everything together. In no time, you’ll have a dish ready to bake that practically begs to be savored.
What You’ll Need
Gather these items before you start:
- 4 cups uncooked pasta (elbow or shells are great choices)
- 8 tablespoons butter
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 cups shredded cheese (using a blend elevates the flavor)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons white pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne
If needed, consider swapping half the heavy cream with more milk or using a gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary preferences.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat your oven to 325°F and grease a 9” x 13” casserole dish. Set it aside.
In a large stockpot, melt 8 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
Once the butter is melted, whisk in 6 tablespoons of flour to form a roux. Add the salt, white pepper, paprika, and cayenne to taste.
Gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups of milk and 1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream while increasing the heat to medium-high.
Stir in 3 cups of your chosen cheese blend, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens and the cheese is fully melted.
Drain the cooked pasta (do not rinse) and combine it with the cheese sauce, pouring the mix into the prepared casserole dish.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese over the top.
Bake for 25 minutes, until the cheese on top is beautifully browned and bubbling.
Enjoy your creation!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This baked macaroni and cheese can be enjoyed straight from the dish, but consider these delightful serving suggestions:
- Offer it alongside a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Pair with roasted veggies for some added color and nutrition.
- For a fun twist, serve it in small ramekins as individual portions, perfect for entertaining.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storing your leftover baked macaroni and cheese is simple: let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This dish will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you want to freeze it, store it in freezer-safe containers, and it’ll last up to 3 months. Just be sure to reheat it in the oven for the best results, restoring that lovely creamy texture.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Melt the butter and whisk in the flour thoroughly to avoid clumps in your cheese sauce.
- Make sure to stir continuously when adding milk; this helps the sauce achieve a silky finish.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations like sharp cheddar mixed with Gruyère for a gourmet take.
Creative Twists
Feel free to get creative with your mac and cheese!
- Add cooked bacon or caramelized onions for an extra layer of flavor.
- Mix in some cooked broccoli or spinach for a healthier twist.
- Spice things up by adding jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder.
Your Questions Answered
1. How long does it take to prepare?
Prep and cooking time is about 15-20 minutes, plus 25 minutes for baking.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that different cheeses melt and flavor profiles will vary.
3. How do I reheat leftovers?
For best quality, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave it, but the texture might be slightly less creamy.
This baked macaroni and cheese recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, guaranteeing warmth and delight in every cheesy bite!
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F and grease a 9” x 13” casserole dish. Set it aside.
- In a large stockpot, melt 8 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
- Once the butter is melted, whisk in 6 tablespoons of flour to form a roux. Add the salt, white pepper, paprika, and cayenne to taste.
- Gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups of milk and 1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream while increasing the heat to medium-high.
- Stir in 3 cups of your chosen cheese blend, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens and the cheese is fully melted.
- Drain the cooked pasta (do not rinse) and combine it with the cheese sauce, pouring the mix into the prepared casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese over the top.
- Bake for 25 minutes, until the cheese on top is beautifully browned and bubbling.
- Enjoy your creation!
