Description
This mouthwatering mac and cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food with creamy cheddar, a buttery roux, and baked golden perfection. Easy, cheesy, and perfect for weeknights, holidays, or whenever you need rich, gooey satisfaction. Keywords include: mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, comfort food, cheddar pasta, classic mac and cheese.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup breadcrumbs optional
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk for about a minute until golden and bubbling.
3. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream until smooth. Cook until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
5. Fold in the cooked macaroni until well coated. Pour into a greased baking dish.
6. Top with breadcrumbs if using. Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Notes
This recipe is perfect for doubling if serving a crowd.
For a smokier flavor, try adding a handful of smoked gouda or bacon crumbles.
Make sure to shred your own cheese for best melt and texture—pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 75mg