Creamy Baked Macaroni is a classic comfort food that brings warmth to the table. With its cheesy goodness and delightful texture, it’s a favorite among kids and adults alike. This dish is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or just a cozy night in.
Table of Contents
Why make this recipe
Making Creamy Baked Macaroni is a straightforward process that results in a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s an excellent way to use simple ingredients to create something truly special. Plus, the creamy cheese sauce and crispy topping make it a delight to eat.
How to make Creamy Baked Macaroni
Making this delicious dish is easy! Here’s a step-by-step guide to prepare Creamy Baked Macaroni.
Ingredients:
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Directions:
- Cook the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste.
- Add Milk and Cheese: Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture thickens and bubbles. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, black pepper, mustard powder, and paprika until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the baked macaroni and cheese rest for a few minutes before serving.
Creamy Baked Macaroni
Creamy Baked Macaroni is a classic comfort food that combines cheesy goodness with delightful texture, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture thickens and bubbles. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, black pepper, mustard powder, and paprika until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let the baked macaroni and cheese rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra creaminess, add cream cheese to the cheese sauce. Experiment with different cheese blends to customize flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
How to serve Creamy Baked Macaroni
Serve Creamy Baked Macaroni hot, straight from the oven. You can enjoy it as a side dish or as a main meal. It pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
How to store Creamy Baked Macaroni
To store any leftovers, let the dish cool down, then cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Tips to make Creamy Baked Macaroni
- For extra creaminess, you can add a little cream cheese to the cheese sauce.
- Experiment with different cheese blends to customize the flavor.
- Adding cooked bacon or vegetables can enhance the dish further.
Variations
You can make a baked macaroni with a different type of pasta, such as shells or penne. Adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach can also make it more nutritious without sacrificing taste.
FAQs
- Can I make Creamy Baked Macaroni ahead of time?
- Yes! You can prepare it a day ahead and bake it right before serving.
- Is it possible to freeze Creamy Baked Macaroni?
- Yes, you can freeze it. Just make sure it cools completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- What can I serve with Creamy Baked Macaroni?
- It pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
Conclusion
Creamy Baked Macaroni is a comforting and satisfying dish that everyone will love. With easy steps and common ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that warms the heart and brings smiles to the table. Enjoy your cooking!
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