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Baked Macaroni And Cheese Dinner Recipe

Jennifer Watson
I love making baked macaroni and cheese! 🧀 It's creamy and cheesy with a crunchy top layer. Plus, it’s straightforward and doesn't need many tools. Let's dive into the details and make the best dinner dish!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 8 Servings
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot: For boiling the macaroni.
  • Colander: To drain the cooked pasta.
  • Large Mixing Bowl: For combining ingredients.
  • Baking Dish: It should be about 9x13 inches.
  • Whisk: For mixing the cheese sauce.
  • Oven: Preheated to 350°F (175°C).
  • Cheese Grater: To grate the cheese, if you prefer fresh cheese 🍽️.
  • Having all these tools makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni: The star of the dish!
  • 2 cups milk: It adds creaminess.
  • 3 tablespoons butter: For richness. 🧈
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese: Grated gives that cheesy flavor.
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: To thicken the sauce.
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: For a crispy topping.
  • Salt and pepper: To taste.

I love using cheddar, but sometimes I add a bit of mozzarella for extra stretch!

Instructions
 

  • Cook the macaroni: Boil it in salted water until al dente.
  • Prepare cheese sauce: While pasta cooks, melt butter in a pot. Stir in flour to make a paste.
  • Slowly whisk in milk and stir until it thickens.
  • Add cheese: Stir in grated cheese until melted. Season as you wish.
  • Combine: Mix cooked macaroni into the sauce and stir well.
  • Bake: Place mixture in a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden.

Enjoy the deliciousness! 😋

    Notes

    Try different cheese blends for unique flavors.
    Add-ins: I sometimes add cooked bacon bits or jalapeños for extra flavor.
    Storage Tip: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.
    With just a few simple steps, you've got a comforting dish that's sure to please!
    Keyword Cheddar cheese pasta, Cheesy baked dish, Classic American recipes, Comfort Food Dinner, Creamy cheese casserole, Easy baked pasta, Homemade mac and cheese, Kid-friendly dinner ideas