Introduction
Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience! This creamy, dreamy baked mac and cheese is the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug with every delicious bite. Imagine tender elbow macaroni swimming in a rich cheese sauce, perfectly baked to a golden brown and finished with a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a holiday gathering, this mac and cheese is sure to become a favorite on your table!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s bubbling.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring continuously.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to create a smooth mixture without lumps.
- Continue to cook the sauce, stirring frequently, until it thickens—this should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and mix in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until they melt into a creamy sauce.
- Gently fold in the cooked macaroni, ensuring every piece is generously coated in the cheesy goodness.
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil, then sprinkle this mixture over the top of the pasta.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley and serving.
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce or mixing in some cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to get creative with your favorite add-ins!
Cooking Techniques
Getting a perfect cheese sauce is all about patience—make sure to whisk continuously when adding the milk to avoid lumps. Also, letting the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mac and cheese a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What types of cheese work best?
While cheddar and Parmesan are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a bit of blue cheese for added flavor.
Conclusion
There you have it—your go-to recipe for the ultimate baked mac and cheese! Rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying, this dish is sure to please kids and adults alike. Whether served as a side dish or a hearty main, this comforting mac and cheese will have everyone going back for seconds. Enjoy your culinary creation and happy cooking!