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Delicious baked mac and cheese with golden brown topping and parsley garnish.

Classic Baked Mac and Cheese

  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this classic baked mac and cheese recipe! Creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection, this homemade macaroni and cheese is a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 6 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth, cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and thickened. Simmer, stirring constantly.
  3. Remove from heat, stir in cheddar and Gruyere (if using) until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  4. Add cooked macaroni to cheese sauce, combine. Pour into greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter (if using) and sprinkle over top.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let stand a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For extra creamy texture, add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the cheese sauce.
  • Use different cheese types for varied flavor profiles – Monterey Jack, Havarti, or Gouda.
  • Add a crispy topping by mixing breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese.
  • Stir in cooked bacon, ham, or vegetables for a heartier meal.
  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 475 Kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 17g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese, cheese sauce, cheddar, Gruyere, comfort food, homemade mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese

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Find it online: https://thisisrecipes.com/classic-baked-mac-and-cheese/