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- 8 ounces elbow macaroni - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour - 4 cups whole milk - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1 teaspoon mustard powder - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and black pepper to taste - 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping) - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping) Choosing the right type of cheese: Use sharp cheddar for rich flavor. Mixing in mozzarella makes the dish creamy. You can also try Gruyère for a nutty taste. Importance of using whole milk: Whole milk adds creaminess. It makes the sauce thick and smooth. Skim milk will not give the same texture. How to season the pasta water: Always add salt to the boiling water. This step flavors the pasta as it cooks. It enhances the overall taste of the mac and cheese. For a detailed look at the recipe, check out the Full Recipe. To cook elbow macaroni correctly, start with a large pot. Fill it with water and add salt. The water should taste like the sea. This salting helps flavor the pasta. Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the macaroni. Cook it according to the package instructions until it's al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside, but don’t rinse it. Rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce stick. To create a roux, melt the butter in the same pot over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the flour. Stir it constantly for about two minutes. This cooks the flour and gives your sauce a nice base. Next, slowly add the whole milk while whisking. This helps avoid lumps. Keep whisking for about five to seven minutes. When the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, it’s ready. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the sharp cheddar and mozzarella. Mix until the cheese is melted and smooth. Then add mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Now it’s time to assemble your dish. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated. Transfer this mix into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. For the topping, combine breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl. Sprinkle this evenly over the mac and cheese. Bake it in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool for about five minutes before serving. This helps set the dish and makes it easier to serve. For the full recipe, check the earlier section. Adding spice can change the whole taste. Try these: - Paprika: It adds a nice smoky flavor. - Cayenne pepper: For a little heat, use sparingly. - Nutmeg: Just a pinch can bring warmth to the dish. You can also boost flavor by adding protein or veggies: - Cooked bacon: It gives a tasty crunch. - Diced tomatoes: They add freshness and color. - Spinach: It brings nutrition and a nice green touch. Two big mistakes can ruin your dish. - Overcooking the pasta: Cook it just until al dente. It will keep cooking in the oven. - Skipping the resting time: Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes serving easier. Serving matters! Here are ways to make your dish shine: - Use individual bowls: This makes it feel special. - Garnish with parsley: A sprinkle adds color and freshness. - Drizzle extra cheese sauce: It looks great and tastes even better. These tips will make your Classic Baked Mac and Cheese look and taste amazing! If you're ready to create this dish, check the Full Recipe for all the details. {{image_2}} You can switch up the cheese in your mac and cheese for new flavors. Try gouda for a smoky taste. Monterey Jack adds a creamier texture. If you want a kick, use pepper jack cheese. For a lighter dish, swap elbow macaroni with whole wheat or chickpea pasta. These options are healthier and still delicious. Make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free pasta and flour. Many brands offer great gluten-free options that taste just as good. For a vegan alternative, use plant-based milk, like almond or oat milk. You can replace cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. There are also vegan cheese options available now. Add unique spices to create a fusion dish. A dash of curry powder gives a warm, spicy kick. You can also mix in some taco seasoning for a fun twist. Try regional variations, like adding crab for a coastal flair or jalapeños for a Tex-Mex kick. These ideas bring new life to your classic baked mac and cheese recipe. For a full recipe, check out the full recipe section. To keep your mac and cheese fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and prevents it from drying out. Place the container in the fridge. It will last for about three to five days. When you reheat mac and cheese, add a splash of milk. This helps restore creaminess. Heat it in the microwave in short bursts. Stir it every 30 seconds to keep it smooth. You can also reheat it on the stove, adding a bit of milk as you go. If you want to save your baked mac and cheese for later, freezing is a great option. Let the dish cool completely before you freeze it. You can use a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. This helps keep out air and prevents freezer burn. To thaw, place the mac and cheese in the fridge overnight. This gentle method ensures it thaws evenly. When you are ready to reheat, add a bit of milk to the dish. This will help bring back that creamy texture. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it's hot throughout. Enjoy your creamy comfort dish whenever you crave it! For the full recipe, check out the full recipe section. Classic Baked Mac and Cheese lasts for about three to five days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh and tasty. If you want the best flavor, eat it within three days. Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Prepare the mac and cheese, but do not bake it yet. Cover it well and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Baked Mac and Cheese pairs well with many dishes. Try serving it with a fresh salad for crunch. Grilled chicken adds protein and flavor. You can also add steamed broccoli for a healthy touch. Barbecue ribs make a fun, hearty pairing too. If your mac and cheese turns out dry, don't worry! You can fix it easily. Add a splash of milk to the dish. Stir well until it feels creamy again. You can also bake it with more cheese on top for extra moisture and flavor. In this post, we explored how to make classic baked mac and cheese. We discussed the key ingredients, tips for cooking, and ways to enhance flavor. It's essential to pick the right cheese and season well. Following proper steps when cooking and layering helps create the best dish. Remember to store leftovers correctly to keep them fresh. You can also try fun variations to suit your taste. With these tips and tricks, you’ll create a tasty meal that everyone loves. Now, it’s time to get cooking!

Classic Baked Mac and Cheese

Indulge in the comforting goodness of creamy classic baked mac and cheese, a dish that will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds! This simple recipe combines elbow macaroni with a rich, cheesy sauce, topped with golden breadcrumbs for the perfect crunch. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this mac and cheese is a must-try. Click through to explore the full recipe and elevate your comfort food game!
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Ingredients
  

8 ounces elbow macaroni

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

4 cups whole milk

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 teaspoon mustard powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat.

        Whisk in the flour, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to create a roux.

          Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

            Remove the pot from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and mozzarella until melted and smooth.

              Mix in the mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

                Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.

                  Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

                    In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.

                      Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

                        Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

                          Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6

                            - Presentation Tips: Serve in individual bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of parsley or a drizzle of extra cheese sauce for an elegant touch.