Baked macaroni cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a beloved classic in American cuisine. Generations of families have grown up indulging in hearty, gooey bowls of baked mac and cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for a potluck dinner.
Of all the mac and cheese recipes out there, the baked version is arguably the most popular. Baking the mac and cheese takes it from a simple stovetop dish to a satisfying casserole with a crispy, golden-brown crust. Baked mac and cheese recipes vary widely, but they all share a few key ingredients: elbow macaroni, cheese, and a creamy sauce.
The base of any mac and cheese recipe is, of course, the pasta. Elbow macaroni is the traditional choice, though some recipes call for shells, fusilli, or even penne. The pasta is typically cooked until just al dente- soft enough to absorb the sauce, but not overcooked and mushy.
The cheese is the star of the show in this dish, and it’s usually a combination of two or more varieties. Cheddar is a popular choice, with its sharp, tangy flavor and good melting properties. American cheese is often added too, as it melts smoothly and creates a velvety texture. Other options include Gouda, Swiss, or even blue cheese for an extra flavor kick.
The sauce that binds it all together is typically made from butter, flour, and milk. A roux is created by melting butter in a pan, whisking in flour until it forms a paste, and then gradually adding milk to create a creamy sauce. This mixture is typically seasoned with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, which helps to balance the richness of the cheese.
The beauty of baked mac and cheese is that it can be customized to suit any taste. Some recipes add bacon, ham, or even hot dogs for a meaty twist, while others add vegetables like broccoli, peas, or carrots for a healthier option. Some versions even use different cheeses, like fontina or brie, for a truly gourmet twist.
To create a classic American baked mac and cheese, start by cooking the elbow macaroni in boiling, salted water until just al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. In a large saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce. Add grated cheddar cheese and American cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and pour the mixture into a large baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and dot with butter. Bake in a preheated oven until the top is golden brown and crispy, about 20-30 minutes.
Once the mac and cheese is finished baking, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s the perfect side dish for any occasion, and it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So why not indulge in this classic comfort food and whip up a batch of baked mac and cheese for your next family gathering or potluck dinner? Trust us, everyone will be asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Add the salt and pepper and continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
- Pour the macaroni mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the macaroni.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Let the macaroni and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!