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Baked Mac and Cheese

Baked Mac and Cheese

Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, featuring creamy cheese and pasta topped with a crunchy golden crust.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner Plates
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni a classic choice
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded provides bold flavor
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded rich and nutty flavor
  • 4 tablespoons butter for the roux
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce
  • 2 cups whole milk for creaminess
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream adds richness
  • 1 teaspoon salt to enhance flavors
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper offers a gentle kick
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika optional, for smokiness
For the Topping
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs for crunchy topping
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese optional, for added flavor

Equipment

  • large pot
  • saucepan
  • Baking dish
  • Whisk
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

How to Make Baked Mac and Cheese
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease a baking dish.
  2. Boil a large pot of salted water and add the elbow macaroni. Cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  3. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a smooth roux.
  4. Whisk in the milk and cream gradually. Cook and stir until the mixture is thickened and smooth, around 4-5 minutes.
  5. Add the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses to the mixture. Stir on low heat until fully melted and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce in a large bowl, stirring gently until every piece is evenly coated.
  7. Pour this creamy mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  8. Mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and the parmesan cheese in a small bowl. Sprinkle this topping over the pasta.
  9. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  10. Cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 18gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For extra color and flavor, sprinkle fresh herbs on top before serving.

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