Baked Mac and Cheese is a warm and cheesy comfort dish that everyone loves! With creamy cheese coating every piece of macaroni, it’s pure happiness in a bowl.
This dish is perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with family. Honestly, I can never resist sneaking extra bites when it comes out of the oven! Who can blame me? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This classic shape holds the cheese well. If you don’t have elbow macaroni, feel free to use shells, penne, or any pasta shape you like.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tangy flavor. You can swap it with mild cheddar or even a blend of cheeses like pepper jack for some spice.
Mozzarella Cheese: It adds creaminess and stretch. If mozzarella isn’t available, try provolone or even queso quesadilla for a similar melt.
Butter: Unsalted butter is key for creating a roux. If you need a dairy-free version, use a plant-based butter or olive oil, though this will change the flavor slightly.
Milk: Whole milk makes it creamy, but any milk works. You can use almond milk or oat milk if you want to make it non-dairy!
How Do I Make a Creamy Cheese Sauce?
Creating a cheese sauce is one of the key steps in making baked mac and cheese. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Start by making a roux. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat and whisk in the flour for about 1-2 minutes. This helps thicken your sauce.
- Gradually whisk in the warmed milk to avoid lumps. Stir continuously until it thickens and bubbles, about 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat, then mix in your seasonings and the cheese until it’s melted and smooth. Remember, adding the cheese gradually helps prevent clumping.
With these tips, you’ll have a rich and creamy cheese sauce that perfectly coats your pasta! Enjoy making your baked mac and cheese!
Baked Mac And Cheese
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for flavor depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This baked mac and cheese recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to bake. So, you’ll want to set aside around 45 minutes in total before you dive into this warming, cheesy goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your dish cooks evenly. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with some butter or non-stick spray so the mac and cheese doesn’t stick.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—this usually takes about 7-8 minutes. Drain the macaroni and set it aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook the flour a bit—this is called making a roux. Gradually pour in the warmed milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Flavor and Cheese:
Once thickened, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Now, add 2 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese and 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella cheese, mixing until everything is melted and smooth.
5. Combine with Macaroni:
In a large bowl, mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated in that creamy goodness.
6. Assemble and Bake:
Pour the cheesy macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top it with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, then sprinkle the grated Parmesan on top. If you like a little crunch, you can also add breadcrumbs on top before baking.
7. Bake It Up:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The smell will make your mouth water!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly for that perfect creamy texture. Dish it up and enjoy your comforting, cheesy masterpiece!
Dig in and savor every cheesy bite of your homemade baked mac and cheese! 😊
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, gouda, or even a blend of your favorites for a unique flavor.
What If I Don’t Have Dijon Mustard?
No worries! The Dijon mustard is optional and adds a subtle depth of flavor. You can omit it entirely or substitute with a splash of hot sauce or a teaspoon of yellow mustard for a different twist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can help restore creaminess!
