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Baked Mac and Cheese

A cozy comfort food experience with creamy, gooey cheese and a crunchy topping, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni Penne can be used as a substitute if elbow macaroni is not available.
Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons butter High-quality butter recommended.
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk Whole milk is preferred for creaminess.
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar is recommended for better flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste Use sea salt for added flavor.
Topping
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Optional, adds a nice crunch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
Making Cheese Sauce
  1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Stir in flour to form a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
  4. Remove from heat, then stir in the cheese until melted and smooth.
  5. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Combining
  1. Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni.
  2. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
  3. If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
Baking
  1. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  2. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Invest in a good pot, don’t rush the process, and feel free to experiment with different additions like bacon bits or diced tomatoes. Garnish with chives or parsley for a gourmet look.