Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
A classic comfort food that's creamy, cheesy, and perfect for families or gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni Cook until al dente.
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter For melting.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour To thicken the sauce.
- 2 cups milk For the sauce.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Use high-quality cheddar for best flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Optional for topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it’s slightly golden.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
- Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine and Bake
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Stir until all the pasta is well coated.
- Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. If you like, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy texture.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Allow the mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy baked macaroni and cheese!
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C). Consider adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.