Ultimate Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese Bliss
A heavenly creamy baked cheddar mac-and-cheese that's quick to prepare and a crowd pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights.
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- large pot
- large saucepan
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni a classic choice that holds the creamy sauce beautifully
For the Cheese Sauce
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese brings that rich, tangy flavor; save some for topping
- 2 cups whole milk adds creaminess; substitute with almond milk for a lighter version
- 1 cup heavy cream enhances the luscious texture
- ¼ cup unsalted butter used for the roux
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour thickens the sauce for coating the pasta
For Flavor
- 1 teaspoon salt enhances the flavors; adjust according to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper adds subtle heat; freshly ground tastes best
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder enhances the cheese's flavor profile
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness
Optional Topping
- 1 cup breadcrumbs for extra crunch; sprinkle before baking
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook 12 ounces of elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter. Whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour for 1-2 minutes to create a roux without browning it.
- Gradually whisk in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Once thick, add 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, ½ teaspoon of dry mustard powder, and ¼ teaspoon of smoked paprika. Whisk to incorporate.
- Stir in 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and sprinkle breadcrumbs if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding favorite add-ins like broccoli or crispy bacon.
Nutrition
Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 24gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 16gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUCalcium: 600mgIron: 2mg
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