Description
Classic Baked Mac and Cheese is the quintessential comfort dish that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. This creamy, cheesy delight combines perfectly cooked elbow macaroni with a velvety cheddar sauce and a crispy golden topping, making it a favorite for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights in. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this classic recipe that balances simplicity and flavor, ensuring everyone will come back for seconds. Personalize your mac and cheese by adding ingredients like crispy bacon or sautéed vegetables, creating endless variations of this beloved dish.
Ingredients
- ½ pound (1½ cups) uncooked elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1½ cups milk
- ¾ cup half-and-half
- 2½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F and grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in flour, salt, and pepper; cook for about 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in milk and half-and-half, stirring continuously until thickened (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar until melted.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce in a large bowl. Layer half into the prepared baking dish, top with ½ cup cheddar cheese, add remaining macaroni mixture, and finish with the remaining cheddar.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Use a mix of sharp and mild cheddar for depth of flavor. Ensure pasta is cooked al dente as it will continue cooking while baking. For an extra crispy topping, broil for a couple of minutes after baking.