Baked Mac and Cheese with Creamy Cheddar Sauce: A Comfort Food Classic

Nothing beats the warm, gooey goodness of a classic baked mac and cheese. This Baked Mac and Cheese with Creamy Cheddar Sauce features tender pasta coated in a velvety cheese sauce, topped with a crispy golden crust. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious. Perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or just because, this mac and cheese recipe is a must-try! Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni (or any pasta you prefer)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, following the instructions on the package.
2. Drain the pasta, then set it aside. You can save a bit of pasta water if you want to adjust the consistency of the sauce later.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour to the melted butter, whisking constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
3. Slowly add the milk and heavy cream, whisking to combine. Continue stirring for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
4. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
5. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Bake the Mac and Cheese

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. If you want a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. You can also add extra cheese for a cheesier finish.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color.
3. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Tips for the Best Baked Mac and Cheese:

• For extra flavor, try adding a bit of Dijon mustard or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
• Use a mix of cheeses like gouda, Gruyère, or fontina for a more complex and rich flavor profile.
• If you like a creamier texture, consider adding a small amount of cream cheese to the sauce.
• You can also add bacon bits, caramelized onions, or even sautéed mushrooms for a fun twist.

Conclusion:

This Baked Mac and Cheese with Creamy Cheddar Sauce is the perfect comfort food. With its rich and cheesy sauce, tender macaroni, and crispy topping, it’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or just because, this mac and cheese will quickly become a favorite. Try it today and treat yourself to this indulgent, creamy classic!