Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Introduction

Macaroni and cheese is one of the most beloved comfort foods in the world. Creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying, this dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a hearty, homemade meal. While stovetop mac and cheese is delicious, baking it in the oven adds an irresistible golden crust and a gooey, melted center. This recipe captures everything you love about mac and cheese—rich flavor, creamy sauce, and stretchy melted cheese—all baked to perfection.

Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour

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• 4 cups whole milk (warm)

• 1 cup heavy cream (optional for extra richness)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon paprika

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• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

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Method

1. Cook the pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni until just al dente (slightly firm). Drain and set aside.

2. Make the cheese sauce:
   In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the warm milk and heavy cream until smooth and thickened. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

3. Add the cheese:
   Reduce heat to low and stir in 3 cups of cheddar, 1 cup of mozzarella, and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until fully melted and creamy.

4. Combine pasta and sauce:
   Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir until all the pasta is well coated.

5. Assemble the casserole:
   Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella evenly on top. For extra crunch, add breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter.

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6. Bake:
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

7. Serve:
   Allow the baked macaroni and cheese to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Scoop into generous portions and enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness.

Conclusion

Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a timeless dish that brings joy to both kids and adults alike. The creamy cheese sauce combined with perfectly cooked pasta, topped with a golden baked crust, creates a comforting meal that’s impossible to resist. This recipe is versatile—you can experiment with different cheeses, add crispy bacon, or even mix in vegetables for variety. Whether served as a side dish at a holiday dinner or enjoyed as the main course on a cozy evening, this baked mac and cheese will always be a crowd-pleaser.