Baked Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 package uncooked elbow macaroni
16 ounces
- 1/3 cup plus 1/4 cup butter
divided
- 3/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 4-1/2 cups 2% milk
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup dry bread crumbs
Directions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 350°. Cook the macaroni according to package directions for al dente. Drain, and set aside. Editor's Tip: Rinsing cooked pasta might keep the noodles from sticking together, but it also removes the starches that help the sauce stick to the noodles. If needed, you can prevent clumping by tossing the drained macaroni with melted butter or olive oil.
- 2
In a Dutch oven, heat 1/3 cup of the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, and saute until tender. Stir in the flour, ground mustard, salt and pepper until blended.
- 3
Gradually stir in the milk. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Continue to cook and stir until the milk is thickened.
- 4
Add the cheese, and stir until melted. Stir in cooked macaroni. Transfer the mixture to a greased 13x9-inch baking dish.
- 5
Place the bread crumbs in a small bowl. In a microwave, melt the remaining butter. Pour the butter over the bread crumbs, and toss to coat. Sprinkle the bread crumb topping over the casserole.
- 6
Bake, uncovered, until heated through, 30 to 35 minutes.
Baked Mac and Cheese
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About this Recipe
Craving the ultimate comfort food that brings everyone to the table? This Baked Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a deeply satisfying, creamy classic with a golden, crispy topping that’s pure culinary delight. It’s the kind of dish that warms the soul and evokes cherished memories.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines by building its flavors from the ground up, starting with a richly buttered roux infused with finely chopped onion. This aromatic base, combined with ground mustard, salt, and pepper, creates a complex, savory foundation for the creamy milk and sharp cheddar cheese. The addition of dry bread crumbs ensures a perfect textural contrast to the silky sauce.
Expect a dish that's incredibly creamy and rich, with every elbow macaroni coated in a velvety, intensely cheesy sauce. The baking process transforms the top into a beautifully golden, slightly crisp layer, providing a delightful textural counterpoint to the tender pasta within. This is a robust, comforting dish that appeals to all ages.
Customization & Variations
Feel free to experiment with your cheese blend; while sharp cheddar is king here, a mix of Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a touch of smoked gouda can elevate the flavor. For added protein, consider stirring in cooked, shredded chicken, crispy bacon bits, or diced ham before baking. A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can introduce a subtle warmth, while a grating of fresh nutmeg adds traditional depth.
Serve this Baked Mac and Cheese as the centerpiece of a cozy family dinner or as a show-stopping side dish at your next potluck or holiday gathering. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad to cut through the richness, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.