Name: Baked Mac Cheese: 7 Irresistible Comfort Food Recipes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound elbow macaroni; 4 tablespoons butter; 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

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Baked Mac Cheese is a beloved dish that brings warmth and joy to any dinner table. This creamy, cheesy delight made with elbow macaroni and a rich sauce is the ultimate comfort food. Imagine pulling a golden-brown mac and cheese bake from the oven, the cheesy aroma filling the air as you prepare to serve it to your family and friends. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Let’s dive into the delicious world of homemade baked mac cheese!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Mac Cheese

This Baked Mac Cheese recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly creamy, making every bite a comfort food dream come true. Second, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. Third, it can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy it at your convenience. Additionally, the cheesy baked macaroni can easily be customized with different ingredients – think bacon or vegetables for added flavor! This dish embodies the essence of American cuisine and is suitable for vegetarians, making it a versatile option for various dietary preferences. For more comfort food ideas, check out our latest recipes.

Ingredients for Baked Mac Cheese

Gather these items:

1 pound elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

How to Make Baked Mac Cheese Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until golden.
Step 4: Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Stir constantly until thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
Step 5: Lower the heat and add shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Step 6: Stir the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce until well combined.
Step 7: Pour the mixture into the baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs if desired.
Step 8: Bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 9: Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Baked Mac Cheese

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Can be made ahead of time.
Adjust cheese type for different flavors, such as using gouda for a gourmet baked macaroni and cheese twist.
For added crunch, sprinkle more breadcrumbs on top before baking.
Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.

Best Ways to Serve Baked Mac Cheese

Here are some serving suggestions:

Pair with roasted vegetables for a healthier option.
Top with crispy bacon bits for a flavorful crunch.
Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a delightful contrast.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Mac Cheese

Store leftover Baked Mac Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. This makes for a convenient and satisfying meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Mac Cheese

What’s the secret to perfect Baked Mac Cheese?

The secret lies in using a combination of cheeses for depth of flavor and ensuring the sauce is creamy without being too thick. A mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella can elevate your dish significantly!

Can I make Baked Mac Cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance, cover it, and keep it in the fridge. Just bake when you’re ready to serve, making it ideal for gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Mac Cheese?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you cook the pasta just to al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Also, don’t skip on seasoning the cheese sauce; it enhances the overall flavor!

Variations of Baked Mac Cheese You Can Try

There are many delicious variations to consider:

Try adding vegetables such as broccoli or spinach for a nutritious twist.
For a spicy kick, incorporate jalapeños or hot sauce into the cheese sauce.
Create a one-pot baked mac cheese by mixing everything in a casserole dish before baking.
Experiment with different cheese blends like gouda and fontina for a gourmet touch.

Baked Mac Cheese: 7 Irresistible Comfort Food Recipes - Baked Mac Cheese - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our Creamy Potato Soup or Gingerbread Cookies. You can also explore Sweet Potato Biscuits for a delightful side dish!

Baked Mac Cheese: 7 Irresistible Comfort Food Recipes

Author: basmer
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Creamy Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food made with elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, and a rich, velvety sauce.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until golden.
Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Stir constantly until thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
Lower the heat and add shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Stir the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce until well combined.
Pour the mixture into the baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs if desired.
Bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Let rest 5 minutes before serving.