Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Looking for a comforting and delicious meal to enjoy with your family tonight? This Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe is sure to be a hit! Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, this classic dish will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup butter
- 6 cups milk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour until well combined.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in 3 cups of cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni until well coated.
- Pour the macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Popular questions:
- Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Q: Can I use gluten-free flour?
A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses to find the flavor you prefer.
A: Yes, you can assemble the macaroni and cheese ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve.
A: Yes, you can substitute gluten-free flour for the all-purpose flour in this recipe.
Helpful tips:
- For added flavor, try mixing in cooked bacon or diced tomatoes into the macaroni and cheese.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy topping.
- Experiment with different seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, or mustard powder.
Expert Secrets:
- Mix in a small amount of cream cheese to the cheese sauce for extra creaminess.
- Let the macaroni and cheese sit for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set and thicken.