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Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 130 reviews

This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is a comforting classic made with tender elbow macaroni and a luscious blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, enveloped in a rich, creamy homemade cheese sauce. Baked to golden perfection, it features a bubbling, cheesy crust that’s perfect for family dinners and special occasions alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided, sharp recommended)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly.
  2. Make the Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour continuously and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes bubbly and slightly golden, forming a roux base for the sauce.
  3. Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to keep the mixture smooth. Continue to cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Incorporate Seasonings and Cheese: Stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to the sauce. Add 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, stirring continuously until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  5. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce mixture and stir until all pasta is well coated evenly with the creamy cheese sauce.
  6. Assemble in Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour half of the mac and cheese mixture into the dish, then evenly sprinkle half of the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top. Layer the remaining mac and cheese over the cheese layer, then finish by sprinkling the remaining cheddar and mozzarella over the top.
  7. Bake: Bake the assembled mac and cheese uncovered in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and allow the baked mac and cheese to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps enhance the creamy texture and makes it easier to serve.

Notes

  • For extra crunchy topping, you can sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking.
  • Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor, but feel free to mix different cheeses for variation.
  • Do not overcook the pasta in boiling water since it will continue to cook in the oven.
  • If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
  • This dish can be prepared in advance and stored refrigerated before baking.

Keywords: baked mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, baked macaroni recipe, cheese sauce pasta, comfort food, cheddar mac and cheese

Find it online: https://ricoloranz.com/creamy-baked-mac-and-cheese-recipe/