Baked Mac and Cheese is a quintessential comfort food that epitomizes the best of home-cooked indulgence. This classic dish combines tender elbow macaroni with a luscious, creamy cheese sauce, all topped with a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust. Each bite offers a delightful mix of rich, cheesy flavor and satisfying texture.
At the heart of this dish is the cheese sauce, a velvety blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses melted into a smooth, creamy mixture. The sauce is seasoned to perfection, providing a savory depth that enhances the overall flavor profile. The addition of spices like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder introduces subtle layers of flavor, complementing the rich cheese without overwhelming it.
The macaroni, cooked until just al dente, is coated in this decadent cheese sauce, ensuring that each piece of pasta is enveloped in creamy goodness. This marriage of macaroni and cheese creates a harmonious blend of textures, with the pasta providing a tender, slightly chewy base that contrasts beautifully with the silky sauce.
Topping the dish is a crunchy layer of panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and Parmesan cheese. This topping bakes to a perfect golden brown, adding a satisfying crunch and a hint of nuttiness that contrasts with the creamy interior. The combination of the crispy topping and the creamy cheese sauce creates a delightful contrast that makes every bite irresistible.
Baked Mac and Cheese is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting classic that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Whether served as a hearty main course or a delicious side dish, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Its rich, cheesy flavor and satisfying texture make it a go-to favorite for family gatherings, potlucks, and cozy dinners at home.
Ingredients:
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- ½ tsp onion powder (optional)
- 1 large egg, beaten
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, if using.
- Stir in the beaten egg to help bind the sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish (about 2-quart size).
- In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the baked mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set and makes for easier serving.
Tips:
- Cheese Selection: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, fontina, or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor.
- Creamy Texture: For an extra creamy texture, you can add a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the cheese sauce.
- Breadcrumb Topping: Ensure the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with butter for a crisp, golden topping.
Baked Mac and Cheese is a quintessential comfort food that combines tender macaroni with a creamy, cheesy sauce and a crispy, golden topping. It’s the perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or as a hearty side dish. The combination of rich cheeses and a crunchy breadcrumb topping makes it a beloved favorite that never fails to satisfy.
