why make this recipe
Baked Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food loved by many. Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a go-to dish for gatherings, family dinners, or just a cozy night in. Plus, it’s quite versatile, allowing you to customize it with different cheeses or toppings. This recipe ensures a rich and satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy.
how to make Baked Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 6 Tbsp unsalted butter (2/3 stick plus more for greasing)
- 1 Tbsp plus 1/2 tsp fine sea salt (divided, plus more to taste)
- 1 lb elbow macaroni pasta (*preferably a high-quality Italian bronze-cut pasta)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 Tbsp extra-light olive oil (or other neutral oil)
- 6 cups shredded medium cheddar cheese (16 oz)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (6 oz)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp mustard powder (or 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper (plus more to taste)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butter a 3-quart or 9×13-inch casserole dish and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add 1 Tbsp of salt and the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta. Drizzle the noodles with olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses and set aside.
- In a 5 1/2-quart Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. When it foams, whisk in the flour. Keep whisking for about 2 minutes, until the flour starts to turn golden.
- While whisking, slowly add the milk, cream, and reserved pasta water. Keep whisking until the mixture is creamy and just starting to boil.
- Add the paprika, mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, remaining 1/2 tsp of salt, and pepper. Whisk to combine, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer while whisking for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a light gravy consistency.
- Add 3 cups of the cheese mixture to the pan and stir until melted. Add another 3 cups of cheese and stir until it melts. Fold in the pasta to coat. Turn off the heat and add salt and pepper if needed.
- Pour the mac and cheese into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of cheese on top and bake for 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling. For a golden-brown topping, broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes. Serve warm.
how to serve Baked Mac and Cheese
Serve your Baked Mac and Cheese hot from the oven, topped with extra cheese if desired. It pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs or breadcrumbs on top for added flavor and texture.
how to store Baked Mac and Cheese
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. To reheat, place in the oven or microwave until heated through. You may add a splash of milk to help keep it creamy.
tips to make Baked Mac and Cheese
- Use a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor. Sharp cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack can add a unique twist.
- To make it extra decadent, consider adding cooked bacon, ham, or sautéed veggies to the pasta before baking.
- For a crunchy topping, mix some breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle it on top before baking.
variation (if any)
You can customize this recipe by trying different pasta shapes such as shells, penne, or fusilli. You can also experiment with different cheeses, like adding blue cheese for a stronger flavor or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese and refrigerate it before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Q: Is it okay to freeze Baked Mac and Cheese?
A: Yes, you can freeze it. Allow it to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: How can I make it healthier?
A: You can substitute whole wheat pasta, use low-fat cheese and milk, or add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.
Baked Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 Tbsp unsalted butter (2/3 stick plus more for greasing)
- 1 Tbsp plus 1/2 tsp fine sea salt (divided, plus more to taste)
- 1 lb elbow macaroni pasta (*preferably a high-quality Italian bronze-cut pasta)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 Tbsp extra-light olive oil (or other neutral oil)
- 6 cups shredded medium cheddar cheese (16 oz)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (6 oz)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp mustard powder (or 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper (plus more to taste)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butter a 3-quart or 9x13-inch casserole dish and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add 1 Tbsp of salt and the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Drizzle the noodles with olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside.
Cheese Sauce
- In a large bowl, mix together the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses and set aside.
- In a 5 1/2-quart Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. When it foams, whisk in the flour and keep whisking for about 2 minutes, until the flour starts to turn golden.
- While whisking, slowly add the milk, cream, and reserved pasta water. Keep whisking until the mixture is creamy and just starting to boil.
- Add the paprika, mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, remaining 1/2 tsp of salt, and pepper. Whisk to combine, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer while whisking for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a light gravy consistency.
Combine and Bake
- Add 3 cups of the cheese mixture to the pan and stir until melted. Add another 3 cups of cheese and stir until it melts. Fold in the pasta to coat. Turn off the heat and add salt and pepper if needed.
- Pour the mac and cheese into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of cheese on top and bake for 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- For a golden-brown topping, broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes. Serve warm.