Description
This Quick Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that offers creamy, cheesy goodness with a slightly crispy top. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, it’s an easy dish to prepare without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup butter, divided
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente, then drain well.
- In a large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat, whisk in the flour, then gradually add the milk and cook until thickened. Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted.
- Melt the remaining butter in a small skillet, and toss the breadcrumbs until lightly toasted, if using.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, pour into a greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
- Use high-quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the macaroni; it should be al dente.
- Whisk the cheese sauce constantly to prevent lumps.
- Add a dash of mustard powder to enhance flavor.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties for a unique taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg