Description
This Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese recipe offers a rich, cheesy comfort food classic perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a velvety blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, baked to golden perfection with a crunchy breadcrumb topping for added texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Make roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, constantly stirring to form a smooth roux without burning.
- Add cream and thicken: Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Season sauce: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to infuse the sauce with balanced savory flavors.
- Melt cheeses: Add the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the sauce, stirring until fully melted and creating a smooth, luscious cheese sauce.
- Combine macaroni and sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni thoroughly into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Add topping and bake: Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the macaroni if using, and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the dish is bubbly.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of paprika or mustard powder to the cheese sauce.
- Using a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella provides both flavor and creaminess.
- Breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a delightful crunch.
- Allow the baked mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes before serving to help it set.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
