Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Baked Macaroni and Cheese

6 servings
A traditional mac and cheese. Bake it with your favorite cheeses, veggies or meats for a one-dish wonder.

Ingredients

  • dry elbow macaroni

    shells or cavatappi

    1 ½ c
  • butter or margarine
    3 tbsp
  • all purpose flour
    3 tbsp
  • milk

    not skim

    2 c
  • each salt and pepper
    ½ tsp
  • shredded cheese

    i like 1 cup each of sharp cheddar and swiss

    2 c

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

  2. 2

    Bring a pot of water to a boil; add a generous sprinkling of salt the pasta.

  3. 3

    While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a skillet or pot large enough to hold the pasta when it's done.

  4. 4

    Add the flour and stir over medium heat until the mixture is lightly browned; 1-2 minutes.

  5. 5

    Add the milk and whisk to remove any lumps and add the salt and pepper.

  6. 6

    Cook over medium-high heat until the sauce thickens and starts to bubble. About 6 minutes.

  7. 7

    Stir in the cheese and whisk until smooth and melted. Turn off the heat.

  8. 8

    When the pasta is almost done but still firm, drain it and add to the sauce.

  9. 9

    Stir the pasta into the sauce and bake in a greased 2 quart dish (or an 8x8 pan works pretty well) 20-25 minutes until browned and bubbly. You can also skip baking it if you want it super creamy and just put it under the broiler to brown the top (keep an eye on it) and then serve.

Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Baked Macaroni and Cheese

55 min6 servings395 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving the ultimate comfort food experience that tastes just like grandma used to make? This Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe delivers that classic, creamy, and utterly satisfying dish you've been dreaming of. It's perfect for a cozy family dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck side.

What sets this recipe apart is its dedication to a time-honored approach: a rich, velvety cheese sauce made from scratch, baked to golden perfection. You'll love how the simple combination of butter, flour, milk, and your favorite cheeses transforms into a truly decadent base, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful. It’s a versatile foundation, ready to be customized into your own signature creation.

Expect a symphony of textures and flavors. Each serving promises tender macaroni enveloped in a luscious, savory cheese sauce, all crowned with a beautifully golden, slightly crisp topping from the oven. This isn't your average quick-fix mac and cheese; it's a hearty side dish that nourishes the soul, offering a comforting warmth that only homemade can provide. With 395 calories per serving, it’s a substantial addition to any meal.

This traditional baked macaroni and cheese is incredibly adaptable. While the recipe suggests a delightful blend of sharp cheddar and Swiss cheese, feel free to experiment with Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a touch of smoked gouda for extra depth. Transform it into a one-dish wonder by incorporating your favorite cooked vegetables like steamed broccoli florets or sautéed mushrooms. You can also stir in cooked meats such as diced ham, crispy bacon bits, or shredded chicken for a more substantial meal.

Serve this classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese alongside roasted chicken, barbecue ribs, or as the star side dish at your next holiday gathering. Its comforting presence makes any meal feel special and complete.

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