Ultimate Baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese
Imagine a creamy, cheesy delight that transports you straight to comfort food heaven – the Ultimate Baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese. This recipe is a symphony of flavors and textures, a perfect blend of rich, gooey cheese, tender pasta, and a crunchy golden topping that will make your taste buds sing with joy.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to the package directions. Drain.
- In a large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour until the mixture becomes paste-like and light golden brown.
- Gradually whisk in milk so that no lumps form, and continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- Lower the heat, and stir in salt, black pepper, paprika, and 1 1/2 cups Cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Fold the macaroni into the mix and pour into a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
- Melt the remaining butter in a skillet over medium heat. Mix in the breadcrumbs until coated with the butter. Spread evenly over the macaroni and cheese to cover.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly, about 20 minutes.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, this Ultimate Baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese is a crowd-pleaser. Perfectly cooked pasta is enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, and baked to golden perfection.
Nutritional Information (per serving): Calories 450, Fat 25g, Carbohydrates 35g, Protein 20g
Indulge in the warm, cheesy embrace of this Ultimate Baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese recipe, a dish that’s not just a meal but a heartfelt experience. It’s a culinary masterpiece that brings families together, leaving them with satisfied smiles and fond memories. So, gather your loved ones, set the table, and get ready for a taste sensation that will keep you coming back for more.
