Description
Cheesy Baked Macaroni: Comfort in Every Bite
A bowl of macaroni and cheese is all you need to bring comfort to any meal! This cheesy, gooey baked macaroni is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
1 lb elbow macaroni
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions:
Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to make a roux. Gradually add the milk and cream, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
Add the Cheese: Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir until well coated. Pour the cheesy mixture into a greased baking dish.
Top with Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crispy golden finish.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy: Let it cool for a few minutes, then serve warm and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect baked macaroni every time. First, ensure your pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to soften in the oven. For the roux, whisk the flour into the melted butter for a full minute to cook out the raw flour taste. When adding the milk and cream, do so slowly, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. The sauce is ready when it coats the back of a spoon. Remove the sauce from the heat before adding the cheese; this prevents it from becoming grainy. When combining, ensure every piece of pasta is enveloped in the sauce before transferring to your baking dish.
Serving Suggestions
This classic dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted chicken, meatloaf, or grilled sausages. To elevate the presentation, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives. For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins.
How-to Summary
Boil pasta until al dente and drain. Create a roux with butter and flour, then whisk in milk and cream to form a béchamel sauce. Off the heat, stir in shredded cheeses until melted and smooth. Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked pasta, transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What’s the best cheese blend? While cheddar and mozzarella are classic, incorporating Gruyère for nuttiness or a small amount of cream cheese for extra creaminess are excellent upgrades.
How do I prevent a dry mac and cheese? Ensure your sauce is slightly thinner than desired before baking, as the pasta will absorb liquid. Using full-fat dairy also helps maintain creaminess.
Can I freeze baked macaroni? It’s possible but may affect texture. Freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
My sauce is lumpy. How can I fix it? Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve to remove lumps, or use an immersion blender to smooth it out before adding the cheese.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta initially, leading to a mushy final dish.
- Adding cheese to a sauce that is too hot, which can cause it to separate and become oily.
- Using pre-shredded bagged cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Always shred your own.
- Not seasoning the sauce adequately. Taste and adjust salt and pepper before combining with the pasta.
- Skipping the step of letting the baked macaroni rest for 5-10 minutes before serving; this allows the sauce to set for perfect slicing.
Conclusion
Mastering this cheesy baked macaroni recipe is about embracing simple techniques for a spectacular result. From creating a smooth roux to choosing the right cheese, each step builds layers of flavor and texture. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, guaranteed to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table. With the tips and guidance provided, you’re now equipped to avoid common pitfalls and create a creamy, golden masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.