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Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese

Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese

Indulge in this Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese, a comforting dish that's rich, gooey, and perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner Plates
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Elbow macaroni ideal shape for catching cheese
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted butter used to create a rich base
  • 2 tbsp All-purpose flour helps thicken the sauce
  • 2 cups Milk provides creaminess
  • 2 cups Shredded sharp cheddar cheese the star ingredient
  • 1 tsp Salt enhances overall taste
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper adds warmth
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder adds aromatic flavor
  • 1/2 tsp Paprika adds color and mild sweetness
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs provides crunch

Equipment

  • Oven
  • saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish

Method
 

Directions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions; drain and set aside.
  3. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  4. Whisk in the flour, cooking for 1 minute.
  5. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  7. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
  8. Transfer to a baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
  10. Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor and color.

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