Ultimate Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Dive into the heartwarming embrace of our Ultimate Baked Macaroni and Cheese, a dish that stands as a testament to the power of comfort food. This creation marries the tender, perfectly cooked elbow macaroni with a luxuriously smooth and rich cheese sauce, all under a golden crust of baked cheese and optional breadcrumbs. Each bite is a blend of creamy texture and cheesy goodness, making it the perfect dish for any occasion that calls for a bit of warmth and joy.

Elevating the classic to new heights, this Gourmet Golden Crusted Mac and Cheese Delight is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or simply treating your family to a delicious homemade dinner, this recipe promises to deliver satisfaction in every spoonful. The combination of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella, accentuated with hints of paprika and garlic, creates a flavor profile that’s both sophisticated and deeply comforting.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 16 oz (450g) elbow macaroni
  • 4 cups (1 liter) milk
  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 4 cups (400g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

 

Directions:

  1. Intro: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and gathering all ingredients.
  2. Noodles: Cook elbow macaroni to al dente as per package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  3. Cheese: Mix shredded cheddar and mozzarella, reserving 1 cup for topping.
  4. Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour for 2 minutes, then gradually add milk, whisking to avoid lumps. Add salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, cooking until thickened. Off the heat, stir in the cheese blend until smooth.
  5. Baking: Mix macaroni with cheese sauce, transfer to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with reserved cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Kcal: 780 | Servings: 8