Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
This delicious creamy baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, featuring perfectly cooked macaroni enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce and a crispy topping. It's a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or gatherings.
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 baking dish (9x13 inches)
- 1 saucepan
- 1 whisk
- 1 wooden spoon
- 1 colander
- 1 set measuring cups and spoons
- 1 oven mitts
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs Optional for topping.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter Optional for topping.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly and golden.
- Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, around 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring all pasta is well coated.
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish.
- If using, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Feel free to customize by adding cooked bacon, broccoli, or other vegetables. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a little milk for creaminess if necessary.