Classic Baked Macaroni & Cheese Casserole

Classic Baked Macaroni & Cheese Casserole

💛 Introduction:

There’s nothing quite like the creamy, cheesy magic of Baked Macaroni and Cheese. Golden on top and velvety inside, this beloved casserole is the ultimate comfort dish—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. With tender pasta, a luscious homemade cheese sauce, and a crisp topping of melted cheddar, this recipe brings back all the nostalgia of home-cooked goodness—made even better.

🍴 Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 3 cups milk (preferably whole milk, warmed)

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• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)

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• 1/2 tsp dried thyme or parsley (for topping)

• Extra 1 cup shredded cheddar for topping

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta:
   Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente (about 7–8 minutes). Drain and set aside.

2. Make the cheese sauce (béchamel):
   In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a roux (it should bubble but not brown).
   Slowly add the warm milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for 3–5 minutes until thickened.

3. Add the cheese:
   Remove the pan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

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4. Combine with pasta:
   Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated and creamy.

5. Assemble the casserole:
   Pour the cheesy pasta into a greased baking dish. Top with the extra 1 cup of shredded cheddar and sprinkle with dried thyme or parsley.

6. Bake:
   Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until the top is golden, bubbly, and slightly crisp around the edges.

7. Cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it hot for the ultimate cheesy experience!

🥰 Closing:

This Classic Baked Macaroni & Cheese Casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a warm, gooey hug in a bowl. Creamy on the inside, crispy on top, and overflowing with rich cheese flavor, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike. Serve it solo or pair it with grilled meats, salads, or roasted veggies. Either way, it’s comfort food done right. 🧀✨

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