Alright y’all, gather ‘round because we’re about to dive into a creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious recipe that’ll have you reaching for seconds! This ain’t just any mac and cheese; we’re talking about the Best Baked Mac and Cheese that will knock your socks off. Grab your apron, and let’s get to cooking!
Check it out!
This baked mac and cheese recipe is perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or whenever you need a little comfort food. Trust me when I say this dish is all about that gooey, cheesy goodness that warms the soul.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this tasty dish:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
Instructions
Now, let’s get this goodness into the oven!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and hot.
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute until it’s golden.
- Add the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Cook until it thickens, stirring frequently.
- Cheesy goodness: Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until everything is coated.
- Prep for baking: Pour the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top for that perfect crunch.
- Bake: Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes, then dig in and enjoy the best baked mac and cheese you’ve ever made!
And there you have it, folks! A comforting, cheesy delight that’s perfect for any occasion. Make sure to keep this recipe close because once you try it, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
Mac and Cheese Recipe for 2 That’s Perfect
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