This creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipe is a classic comfort food that combines tender pasta with a rich and cheesy sauce. It’s a favorite for family dinners and gatherings, offering a satisfying dish that everyone will love.
With options for stovetop macaroni and cheese or a baked version, this recipe ensures you can enjoy the best macaroni and cheese experience at home. Whether you prefer a southern baked macaroni and cheese style or a simple homemade version, this recipe is sure to please.
Overview of Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
This creamy baked macaroni and cheese is a timeless favorite that brings warmth and comfort to any meal.
With its rich, cheesy sauce enveloping tender elbow macaroni, it’s a dish that appeals to both children and adults alike.
The addition of a golden breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch, making each bite a satisfying experience.
Ingredients for a Perfect Dish
To create the best macaroni and cheese, you’ll need a few key ingredients.
Elbow macaroni serves as the base, while a combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses provides a rich and creamy texture.
Don’t forget the butter, flour, and milk, which are essential for the cheese sauce, along with seasonings like garlic and onion powder to enhance the flavor.
Cooking Process
The process begins with cooking the elbow macaroni until it’s al dente, ensuring it maintains a slight bite.
Next, a smooth cheese sauce is prepared by melting butter, whisking in flour, and gradually adding milk.
Once thickened, the cheese is stirred in until melted, creating a luscious sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
Baking to Perfection
After combining the macaroni with the cheese sauce, the mixture is transferred to a greased baking dish.
A mixture of breadcrumbs and melted butter is sprinkled on top, providing that sought-after golden crust.
Baking in a preheated oven allows the dish to bubble and brown, resulting in a visually appealing and delicious meal.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, let the macaroni and cheese cool slightly before serving.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables, balancing the richness of the cheese.
For a rustic presentation, serve it directly from the baking dish, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
Variations to Try
While this creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipe is a classic, there are many ways to customize it.
For a southern baked macaroni and cheese twist, consider adding ingredients like cooked bacon or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Alternatively, a stovetop macaroni and cheese version can be made for a quicker meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
Easy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
This baked macaroni and cheese features elbow macaroni enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust for added texture. The recipe takes about 50 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, and continue to cook until the sauce thickens. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Combine: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy baked macaroni and cheese!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g