Mac and cheese is a warm, cheesy hug in a bowl! This creamy dish combines tender pasta with gooey cheese, making it a favorite for both kids and adults.
I love throwing in a dash of pepper for a little kick. It’s super easy to whip up and perfect for those cozy nights when you just want comfort food! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic pasta choice for mac and cheese, but you can use other pasta types like shells, cavatappi, or even penne if you prefer something different.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: It’s the star of the dish for its bold flavor. If you want a milder taste, go for medium cheddar. You can also mix in mozzarella or Gouda for extra creaminess.
Whole Milk: This helps create a rich, creamy sauce. For a lighter option, you can substitute with 2% milk or a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, but ensure they are unsweetened!
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for this recipe, but if you’re out, you can use olive oil or even margarine. Just keep the flavors in mind; oil can alter the taste slightly.
Breadcrumbs: These add a nice crunch on top! If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or even panko work great. You can skip this step if you prefer a creamier top.
How Do I Make Sure My Cheese Sauce is Smooth?
Creating a smooth cheese sauce is key for perfect mac and cheese. Start by making a roux with butter and flour. Cook it for a couple of minutes without browning. This step thickens the sauce and prevents clumping.
- Gradually whisk in the milk over medium heat. Keep stirring constantly as it thickens, taking about 5-7 minutes.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and add the cheese gradually. Stir until melted and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit more milk.
- Make sure to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce for a creamy bite every time!
Classic Baked Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni pasta (about 2 cups)
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- Fresh or dried parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of baking time, making the total time needed around 35 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating, boil some salted water in a large pot for the macaroni.
2. Cook the Macaroni:
Once the water is at a rolling boil, add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you make the cheese sauce.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. After the butter is melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes. It should be smooth and bubbly but not browned.
4. Add Milk and Thicken:
Slowly whisk in the whole milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy—this should take about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in the Cheese:
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and add in 2 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until everything is melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, if using.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Gently fold the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce, making sure each piece of pasta is well coated in that creamy goodness!
7. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the cheesy macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish or individual ramekins for single servings.
8. Top It Off:
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top. If you want a crispy topping, add breadcrumbs as well!
9. Bake to Perfection:
Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. You can garnish with parsley for some extra flavor and color before serving.
Enjoy your creamy, perfectly baked mac and cheese with that delightful golden, bubbly cheese on top! It’s a dish that’s sure to bring comfort to your table!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and extra nutrients. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free elbow macaroni or any similar pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the best results.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love some heat, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the cheese sauce. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the mixture for an extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or bake in the oven until heated through, adding a splash of milk if the sauce seems a bit thick.
Can I Freeze Baked Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake until bubbly.
