Description
Golden Baked Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Ingredients:
For the Mac and Cheese:
12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp butter, melted
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh thyme (optional)
Directions:
Prepare the Pasta:
Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux.
Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until thickened.
Add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine:
Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
Bake:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the dish for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh thyme for an extra touch of flavor. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestion: Pair this creamy, golden mac and cheese with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Indulge in this cheesy, crispy, irresistible delight!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cook the pasta in well-salted water; this is your only chance to season the noodles themselves. For the roux, whisk the flour into the melted butter constantly for a full minute to cook out the raw flour taste. When adding the milk, pour it in slowly while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Let the sauce simmer until it coats the back of a spoon. Remove the sauce from heat before stirring in the cheeses; this prevents them from becoming grainy. Combine the sauced pasta in your prepared dish. For the topping, ensure the butter is fully melted to evenly coat the breadcrumbs for uniform crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious on its own, this mac and cheese can be the centerpiece of a larger meal. Serve it alongside a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a heartier dinner, pair it with roasted broccoli or garlicky sautéed greens. It also makes an excellent companion to grilled chicken, meatloaf, or barbecue dishes. For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins.
How-to Summary
In brief: Cook pasta. Make a roux with butter and flour. Whisk in milk to create a béchamel sauce. Off heat, stir in cheeses until melted. Combine sauce and pasta, top with buttery breadcrumbs and Parmesan. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the dish completely, 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? The recipe uses a great balance: cheddar for sharpness, mozzarella for stretch, and Parmesan for saltiness. Gouda, fontina, or a bit of cream cheese are also excellent additions.
Why is my cheese sauce grainy? This often happens if the sauce is too hot when the cheese is added or if it’s overheated afterward. Always remove the saucepan from the heat before stirring in the shredded cheese.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese? It’s not recommended. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent a smooth melt. Block cheese you shred yourself melts far more evenly.
How do I reheat leftovers? Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in a skillet on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. The microwave can make the pasta rubbery.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta before baking. It will soften further in the oven, so cook only to al dente.
- Adding cheese to a boiling sauce, which causes it to separate and become oily.
- Using stale breadcrumbs or skipping the butter in the topping, resulting in a dry, sandy texture.
- Not seasoning the pasta water or the sauce adequately. Taste and adjust the seasoning before combining.
- Cutting and serving immediately. Let the baked dish rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the sauce to set slightly.
Conclusion
This golden baked mac and cheese recipe is a timeless classic that balances a luxuriously creamy interior with a perfectly crisp, buttery topping. By mastering the simple roux-based sauce and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that far surpasses any boxed version. It’s the ultimate in customizable comfort food, perfect for weeknight dinners or festive holiday tables. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never go back.