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Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
- .5 package elbow macaroni
cooked, 16-oz.
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- .5 teaspoon salt
- .25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 block extra sharp Cheddar cheese
shredded, 10-oz.
- .25 teaspoon ground red pepper
optional
- Vegetable cooking spray
Directions
- 1
Preheat oven to 400°F. Prepare pasta according to package directions.
- 2
Microwave milk at HIGH for 1 ½ minutes. Melt butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-low heat; whisk in flour until smooth. Cook, whisking constantly, 1 minute. Gradually whisk in warm milk, and cook, whisking constantly, 5 minutes or until thickened.
- 3
Whisk in salt, black pepper, 1 cup shredded cheese, and, if desired, red pepper until smooth; stir in hot cooked pasta. Spoon pasta mixture into a lightly greased 2-qt. baking dish prepped with cooking spray; top with remaining cheese. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese
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About this Recipe
Tired of lackluster boxed mac and cheese? This Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe brings that comforting, homemade goodness to your table, proving that incredible flavor doesn't have to take all day.
What makes this recipe a true classic is its straightforward approach: a rich, velvety cheese sauce built with a traditional butter and flour roux, generously enveloping tender elbow macaroni. The recipe's famous deliciousness comes from embracing simple, quality ingredients, ensuring a deep, satisfying flavor that you just can't get from pre-shredded or milder varieties.
Prepare for a symphony of creamy, cheesy delight with every forkful. You'll find a perfectly baked top layer giving way to a luxuriously smooth interior, where each elbow macaroni noodle is coated in a luscious, savory sauce. This is the ultimate comfort food experience, rich and utterly satisfying without being overly heavy, delivering that nostalgic taste of homemade goodness.
For a slight twist, consider blending in a touch of Gruyère for nuttiness or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess alongside the extra sharp Cheddar cheese. If you enjoy a subtle warmth, don't skip the ground red pepper; it adds a pleasant counterpoint to the richness. You can also experiment with different pasta shapes, though elbow macaroni is undeniably the classic choice.
This Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese is perfect as a hearty main dish on a chilly evening, or as a beloved side at any potluck or family gathering. Pair it with a simple green salad to complete your meal.