Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Rich, velvety mac and cheese baked to golden perfection. This comforting side dish is loaded with cheddar, easy to prep ahead, and always a crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Holiday, Side Dish
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
16 ounces macaroni
⅓ cup butter
⅓ cup flour
½ teaspoon white pepper
½ teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
3½ cups 2% milk
8 ounces medium cheddar cheese, shredded
8 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 3-quart baking dish.
Cook Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook for 8–9 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make Roux:
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour, white pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Cook until smooth and slightly thickened, about 1–2 minutes.
Add Milk:
Gradually stir in milk, about ½ cup at a time, whisking until fully incorporated before adding more.
Melt Cheese:
Add all of the medium cheddar and half of the extra sharp cheddar. Stir until melted and smooth.
Combine Pasta & Sauce:
Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
Bake:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining extra sharp cheddar cheese.
Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate. Add 5–10 extra minutes to baking time if starting cold.
Cheese Options: Try mixing in Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella for added flavor.
Crispier Top: For a crunchy topping, add breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.
Spicy Kick: Increase cayenne or add a few dashes of hot sauce for heat.
Find it online: https://allrecipesmade.com/creamy-baked-macaroni-and-cheese/
