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–+ servings
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese for Cozy Nights In

This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese combines nostalgia and indulgence, making it the ultimate comfort food.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni gluten-free pasta works as a substitute
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 Tbsp unsalted butter essential for creating a rich roux
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour thickens the cheese sauce
  • 2 cups milk whole or 2% for creaminess
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese consider aged cheddar for added depth
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese fontina is a tasty alternative
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese pecorino can add a saltier zing
  • 1 tsp garlic powder swap for fresh garlic if preferred
  • 1 tsp onion powder can be omitted or adjusted
  • 1 tsp mustard powder Dijon mustard serves as a suitable stand-in
  • to taste salt essential for flavor adjustment
  • to taste pepper essential for flavor adjustment
For the Topping
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs creates a delightfully crunchy topping
  • 2 Tbsp melted butter ensures a beautifully golden crust
  • 1 Tbsp fresh parsley for vibrant color and freshness

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish
  • Colander

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Boil salted water in a large pot, cook elbow macaroni until al dente, about 7-8 minutes, then drain.
  3. Melt unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking and stirring for 3-5 minutes until thickened and bubbly.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
  6. Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper; mix well to incorporate.
  7. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is coated, then pour into the baking dish.
  8. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle over the top of the mac and cheese.
  9. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
  10. Let cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 700IUCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This recipe is beginner-friendly and makes a comforting dish perfect for busy nights.

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