If you’re a mac and cheese lover like I am, you know this dish can be both simple and fancy. My recipe for the BEST Baked Mac and Cheese combines creamy cheese with a crisp topping, making it perfect for any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish will warm your heart. Let’s dive into the easy steps and tasty ingredients that make it a hit every time!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Gather these simple ingredients to make the best baked mac and cheese. Each item plays a key role in creating that creamy, cheesy goodness. The elbow macaroni is your pasta base, while butter and flour form the roux to thicken your cheese sauce. Whole milk or 2% milk ensures your sauce stays rich and smooth.
Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder add depth of flavor. The optional cayenne pepper gives a tiny kick, but it’s not necessary. The sharp cheddar and mozzarella create the perfect cheese blend. Breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil give a crunchy topping.
Don’t forget salt and pepper to enhance all these flavors. Fresh parsley is a nice touch for garnish, making your dish pop visually. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide. Enjoy your cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
1. Preheat the oven and cook the macaroni
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key to getting that perfect bake. Next, cook 8 oz of elbow macaroni. Follow the package instructions for best results. Cook it until it’s just al dente. Drain it and let it cool a bit.
2. Make the cheese sauce and combine ingredients
In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Keep whisking for about 1 minute until smooth. Then, slowly pour in 2 cups of milk, stirring constantly. Cook for 5-7 minutes until it thickens. After it thickens, remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder. You can add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a little kick if you like. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add 1 1/2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. Finally, fold in the macaroni, making sure every piece is coated.
Baking
1. Transfer mac and cheese to baking dish
Pour the creamy mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly for a nice bake.
2. Add breadcrumb topping, bake, and final touches
In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle this mixture over the mac and cheese for a crunchy top. For an extra cheesy finish, add the last 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the breadcrumbs. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Look for a bubbly and golden brown top. Once done, let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. You can add fresh parsley for a nice touch. Enjoy your creamy comfort dish!
You can find the complete recipe in the Full Recipe section.
Tips & Tricks
How to Perfect Your Baked Mac and Cheese
To make your baked mac and cheese extra creamy, focus on the sauce. Use whole milk for richness. Mix in a bit of cream for an even silkier texture. Whisk your milk slowly into the roux to avoid lumps. This will ensure a smooth sauce that coats every noodle.
For the best topping, use fresh breadcrumbs. Mix them with a little olive oil to help them crisp. This gives a nice crunch and adds flavor. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking for that gooey finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the pasta. Cook it until it is just al dente. It will continue to cook while baking, and you don’t want mushy noodles.
Another mistake is not seasoning enough. The sauce needs salt and pepper to shine. Taste the cheese sauce before mixing in the pasta. Adjust the seasoning to your liking. A dash of cayenne can add a nice kick, but it’s optional.
Follow these tips, and you will create the best baked mac and cheese! For the full recipe, check out the Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese.
Variations
Flavorful Additions
You can easily make your baked mac and cheese more exciting. Adding vegetables boosts both taste and nutrition. Try mixing in broccoli or spinach. These greens add great color and flavor. They also make the dish healthier.
You can also include proteins like bacon or chicken. Cook the bacon until crispy, then chop it up and mix it in. For chicken, use cooked, shredded pieces. Both options add a savory kick to your dish.
Alternative Cheese Options
Changing up your cheese can also transform this meal. Instead of just cheddar and mozzarella, try different cheese blends. Gruyère, fontina, or pepper jack can add unique flavors. Each cheese brings a different taste and texture.
If you want a dairy-free version, use plant-based cheeses. Many brands offer great alternatives that melt well. Look for options made from nuts or soy. These choices keep your mac and cheese creamy without dairy.
Explore these variations to create your own perfect dish. Each change offers a new way to enjoy this comfort food. Check out the Full Recipe to get started!
Storage Info
How to Properly Store Leftovers
To keep your baked mac and cheese fresh, start by cooling it down. Once it’s cool, place it in an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Just wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. This method will keep it good for up to three months.
Reheating Tips
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, the best method is to reheat in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer your mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish. Add a splash of milk to keep it creamy. Cover with foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes. This will help keep the top crispy while the inside stays creamy. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Just heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, to avoid hot spots.
FAQs
Common User Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it earlier. Cook the pasta and make the cheese sauce. Combine them, but do not bake yet. Store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, add the topping and bake straight from the fridge. This saves time on busy days.
Is it possible to use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free elbow macaroni. It tastes great too. Just follow the cooking time on the package. The sauce will still be creamy and delicious.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To spice it up, add more cayenne pepper. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. For an extra kick, mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese sauce.
What can I serve with baked mac and cheese?
Baked mac and cheese pairs well with many dishes. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. You can also enjoy it with grilled meats like chicken or steak for a complete meal.
Additional Inquiries
Is the best baked mac and cheese recipe customizable?
Yes, this recipe is very flexible. You can add vegetables like broccoli or spinach. For protein, consider adding cooked bacon or chicken. Change the cheese types for different flavors too.
What is the origin of baked mac and cheese?
Baked mac and cheese has roots in Italy and the UK. It became popular in the United States in the 18th century. It has grown into a beloved comfort food worldwide. You can find many versions across different cultures.
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
Baked mac and cheese is simple and delicious. We started with key ingredients like elbow macaroni, cheddar, and mozzarella. Then, we covered step-by-step instructions to guide you. Tips and tricks helped you avoid mistakes, and we explored fun ways to change the recipe. Remember to store leftovers properly and reheat them to keep them tasty.
This recipe is all about comfort and creativity. Enjoy making it your own!
