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–+ servings
Baked Mac and Cheese

Baked Mac and Cheese: A Creamy Comfort Food Classic

Baked Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish that combines elbow macaroni with a rich cheese sauce, perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni Substitute with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese Can be replaced with mild cheddar.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Use provolone or gouda for different flavor.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Grana Padano works well as a substitute.
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
  • ¼ cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour or cornstarch can be alternatives.
  • 3 cups Whole Milk Swap with half-and-half or almond milk for dairy-free option.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust based on taste preference.
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper Substitute with white pepper for milder flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Regular breadcrumbs can be used but texture will differ.

Equipment

  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Large pot
  • Large saucepan

Method
 

Directions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, then whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour for about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Gradually pour in 3 cups of whole milk while whisking to avoid lumps and cook until thickened.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of sharp cheddar, 1 cup of mozzarella, and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese.
  6. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle remaining 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs on top.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  9. Allow to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUCalcium: 350mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best flavor, allow the dish to rest before serving. Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations for a unique flavor!

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