Description
Old fashioned baked macaroni and cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic that has stood the test of time. This rich and flavorful dish features elbow macaroni coated in a luscious sharp cheddar cheese sauce, topped with extra cheese and optionally breadcrumbs, then baked until golden and bubbly. Perfect as a main course or a side dish, it’s beloved for its simplicity and nostalgic appeal.
Ingredients
- Elbow Macaroni: 2 cups
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese (shredded): 2 cups
- Milk: 2 cups
- Butter: 1/4 cup
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Nutmeg or Mustard Powder (optional): 1/4 teaspoon
- Breadcrumbs (optional): 1/2 cup
Instructions
- Prepping the Macaroni: Cook 2 cups of elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Making the Cheese Sauce:
- Melt 1/4 cup of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add 1/4 cup of flour to the melted butter, whisking constantly to form a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes, until lightly golden.
- Gradually add 2 cups of milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Reduce heat to low and stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg or mustard powder if using.
- Assembling and Baking:
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Optional: Top with 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs and additional shredded cheese for a crunchy topping.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan.
- Adding a splash of hot sauce or a dash of smoked paprika can give the dish a spicy twist.
- To prevent the macaroni from sticking together, toss it with a small amount of olive oil after draining.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course or Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Sodium: 600 milligrams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Protein: 15 grams