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Baked Mac and Cheese

Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese for Cozy Family Dinners

This ultimate baked mac and cheese is a comforting family favorite, blending creamy textures and rich flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni You can swap with penne or fusilli.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 1/3 cup butter For a lighter dish, use olive oil.
  • 1 medium onion Consider onion powder or shallots for a milder flavor.
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Use gluten-free flour as a substitute if needed.
  • 1 tablespoon ground mustard Dijon is a tasty alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust according to cheese's saltiness.
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 cups 2% milk Opt for whole milk or cream for a richer sauce.
For the Cheesy Goodness
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese Experiment with Gruyere, Gouda, or Monterey Jack.
For the Crunchy Topping
  • 1 cup dry breadcrumbs Use panko or gluten-free breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Equipment

  • Dutch Oven
  • baking dish
  • whisk
  • pot

Method
 

How to Make Baked Mac and Cheese
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions, aiming for al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Melt 1/3 cup of butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat and sauté the onion until tender.
  4. Whisk in the all-purpose flour, ground mustard, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the milk, stirring until thickened.
  5. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted into the sauce.
  6. Combine the pasta with the cheese sauce, mixing until coated.
  7. Transfer to a greased 13x9-inch baking dish.
  8. Melt the remaining butter and toss with breadcrumbs. Sprinkle over the macaroni mixture.
  9. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Consider adding cooked proteins or veggies for customization. Optional: sprinkle paprika or fresh herbs on top before serving.

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