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Best Ever Baked Macaroni & Cheese

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This creamy baked macaroni and cheese is comfort food at its finest, perfect for family dinners and potlucks. Made with a rich blend of cheeses, it's sure to please both kids and adults alike.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Dairy
  • 4 cups uncooked pasta (macaroni works best) Cook until al dente
  • 8 tablespoons butter For making the roux
  • 6 tablespoons flour For thickening the cheese sauce
  • 1.5 cups whole milk Adds creaminess to the sauce
  • 0.5 cup heavy whipping cream For a richer flavor
  • 4 cups shredded cheese A blend of your favorite cheeses
Seasoning
  • 2 teaspoons salt To taste
  • 2 teaspoons white pepper For subtle heat
  • 1 teaspoon paprika For flavor
  • 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper For a hint of spice

Method
 

Preparation and Cooking
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9” x 13” casserole dish.
  2. In a large stockpot over medium heat, melt the butter.
  3. Boil the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside (do not rinse).
  4. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, stirring until it turns a light golden brown.
  5. Add the salt, white pepper, paprika, and cayenne to enhance the roux's flavor.
  6. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, increasing the heat to medium-high, stirring until it thickens slightly.
  7. Add 3 cups of the shredded cheese, whisking until it is perfectly melted and combined.
  8. Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and gently fold it until well-coated.
  9. Transfer the macaroni and cheese into the prepared casserole dish and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top.
  10. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and melty.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2g

Notes

For creative twists, try adding cooked lobster, sautéed vegetables, or using different types of cheese. Store leftovers in an airtight container; will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.
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