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Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 8 reviews
  • Author: Sue
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipe features tender macaroni pasta enveloped in a rich, cheesy béchamel sauce made from two types of cheddar cheese. The dish is baked to golden perfection, creating a deliciously smooth and comforting classic comfort food, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 16 ounces macaroni

Sauce

  • 1/3 cup butter
  • 1/3 cup flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 3 1/2 cups 2% milk
  • 8 ounces medium cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 8 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the macaroni and cheese.
  2. Cook Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the macaroni and cook for 8 to 9 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
  3. Melt Butter: In a heavy-bottomed large pot over medium heat, melt the butter slowly to create the roux base for the cheese sauce.
  4. Create Roux: Sprinkle the flour, white pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper over the melted butter while whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and thickens slightly.
  5. Add Milk Gradually: Slowly stir in the milk in half-cup increments, waiting for each portion to be fully incorporated before adding the next, to form a creamy béchamel sauce.
  6. Add Cheese and Pasta: Stir in all the medium cheddar cheese and half of the extra sharp cheddar cheese, continuing to stir until melted and smooth. Then fold in the cooked macaroni, coating it thoroughly with the cheese sauce.
  7. Prepare for Baking: Pour the cheese and macaroni mixture into a 3-quart baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining extra sharp cheddar cheese over the top to create a cheesy crust.
  8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes at 375°F until the top is golden and bubbly.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Adjust the cayenne pepper to taste for desired heat level.
  • For a creamier texture, you can substitute some of the 2% milk with heavy cream.
  • Allow the baked macaroni and cheese to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let it set.
  • This dish reheats well in the oven or microwave; cover while reheating to keep moisture.

Find it online: https://suerecipe.com/creamy-baked-macaroni-and-cheese-recipe/