Ah, Baked Mac and Cheese—it’s like a warm hug on a plate, isn’t it? This dish holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of family gatherings where my Aunt Claire would whip up her famous recipe. I remember sneaking into the kitchen just to “help,” which usually meant stealing spoonfuls of cheesy goodness when no one was looking. 😄 It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy winter evening or a backyard BBQ. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about the crispy, golden top and the gooey, cheesy center. Yum!
What I love about this recipe is how customizable it is; you can add different cheeses, veggies, or even some spicy kick with jalapeños if that’s your jam. It can be the main dish or a delightful side, and trust me, it’s always a hit. Once you try this baked mac and cheese, you might just find yourself making it a weekly staple—no judgment here!
What’s in Baked Mac and Cheese?
Pasta: The classic choice here is elbow macaroni, but shells or cavatappi work wonderfully too. Just pick what you love! I personally opt for whole wheat pasta sometimes—gotta sprinkle in a little health, right?
Cheddar Cheese: I go for sharp cheddar for that deliciously rich flavor. You can’t go wrong with a quality brand like Tillamook or Cabot. They know cheese!
Milk: Whole milk is key for that creaminess, but if you’re trying to cut back on calories, 2% can work as well. Just don’t skimp too much on flavor!
Butter: Unsalted butter is perfect for this dish as it lets you control the saltiness accurately. Trust me, it makes a difference!
Flour: All-purpose flour is essential for making a smooth cheese sauce. Think of it as the glue holding all that cheesy goodness together.
Breadcrumbs: A mix of panko and regular breadcrumbs sprinkled on top adds a delightful crunch. Who doesn’t love that?!
Seasonings: A little dash of salt, pepper, and some mustard powder (yes, mustard powder!) plays beautifully to elevate the cheese flavors.
Is Baked Mac and Cheese Good for You?
Well, I won’t pretend that Baked Mac and Cheese is a health food, but it has its upsides!
Pasta: It offers carbohydrates for energy. Choose whole wheat if you want to add some fiber to the mix.
Cheese: Provides a great source of calcium and protein, but keep an eye on portion sizes since it can also be high in fat and calories.
Milk: Adds some extra calcium in the mix, and using low-fat options can help you keep things a bit lighter.
Of course, let’s not get too carried away—it’s rich and indulgent, so better enjoyed in moderation!
Ingredients List
– 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
– 1 teaspoon mustard powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– ½ cup breadcrumbs (mix of panko and regular works great)
*This recipe serves about 4-6 people, depending on portion size—good luck trying to resist seconds!*
How to Make Baked Mac and Cheese?
1. **Preheat Your Oven:** Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Cook the Pasta:** Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. **Make the Cheese Sauce:** In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute until it forms a paste. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
4. **Add Cheese and Seasoning:** Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Add the mustard powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. **Combine:** Pour the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring until evenly coated.
6. **Transfer and Add Topping:** Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
7. **Bake:** Pop it in the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
8. **Let it Rest:** After taking it out, let it sit for a few minutes before diving in to allow it to set.
Cheesy Tips and Variations
– **Cheese Lovers Unite:** Mix up your cheeses! Try adding mozzarella for stretchiness or gouda for a smoky flavor.
– **Add Some Greens:** Toss in cooked spinach, broccoli, or even roasted red peppers to get a veggie boost.
– **For A Kick:** If you like things spicy, throw in some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
– **Storage:** Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. It reheats well; just add a splash of milk when warming it up to keep it creamy.
So there you have it—a deliciously cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese recipe that’s bound to bring comfort to your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try making this and maybe create some of your own memories along the way! If you do, I’d love to hear how it went. Happy cooking!