Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our Ultimate Baked Mac Cheese! This creamy, cheesy delight is the epitome of American cuisine, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. With its golden-brown crust and gooey cheese goodness, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds! In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a batch that serves six, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or a satisfying weeknight meal. Don’t miss out on the secret to achieving that perfect cheesy texture—read on to discover the recipe that will elevate your mac and cheese game to new heights!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, typically 8-9 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once fully melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to create a smooth roux, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 5-6 minutes.
- Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted and incorporated. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to ensure every pasta piece is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly crispy around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the cheese sauce to set slightly.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional paprika or fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook your elbow macaroni just until al dente. This ensures that the pasta holds its shape and doesn't become mushy after baking.
- Smooth Sauce: When making the cheese sauce, whisk continuously while adding the milk to prevent lumps. A smooth roux is key to a creamy mac and cheese.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for added flavor and creaminess.
- Baking Dish: Greasing your baking dish is essential to prevent sticking. You can also use parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Resting Time: Allow the baked mac and cheese to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the cheese sauce set and makes for neater servings.
- Garnish for Flair: For an extra touch, sprinkle some paprika or fresh parsley on top before serving. It adds a pop of color and a hint of flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 100mg
