Description

Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, offering a creamy, cheesy experience that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. With a perfectly golden crust and rich flavors, this dish is ideal for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent. Easy to prepare and customizable, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 cups whole milk
4 tbsp unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt to taste

Instructions

Cook elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth to create a roux.
Gradually add milk while whisking to avoid lumps; cook until thickened (about 5 minutes).
Stir in cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder until melted and creamy.
Combine pasta with cheese sauce in a large bowl until well coated.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish, top with panko breadcrumbs, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 400
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 16g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: - For extra creaminess, consider mixing different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella. - You can add cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for added flavor. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in the oven at 350°F.