why make this recipe
Baked Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food that everyone loves. It’s creamy, cheesy, and has a crispy topping that makes every bite satisfying. This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or simply a cozy night in. Making it at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize it to your liking. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can feed a crowd!
how to make Baked Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 250 g macaroni elbow pasta
- 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 cups freshly shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cups warmed milk (low or full fat)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt 4 tbsp of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens.
- Add in the onion powder, mustard powder, garlic powder, and salt.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded Gruyere and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
- Pour into a greased baking dish and top with panko breadcrumbs and melted butter.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
how to serve Baked Mac and Cheese
You can serve Baked Mac and Cheese warm as a main dish or as a side. It pairs well with salads, grilled vegetables, or even roasted meats. For a fun twist, top each serving with crispy bacon bits or fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor and color.
how to store Baked Mac and Cheese
To store leftover Baked Mac and Cheese, let it cool completely first. Then, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-5 days. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, or in the microwave, covered, until heated through.
tips to make Baked Mac and Cheese
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting quality.
- Don’t overcook the macaroni; it should be al dente since it will cook more in the oven.
- Feel free to mix in cooked vegetables, like broccoli or spinach, for added nutrition.
- For extra crunch, you can mix some of the panko breadcrumbs with grated cheese before topping the dish.
variation
You can change up the cheese according to your preferences. Cheddar cheese, fontina, or even blue cheese can add different flavors. You can also experiment by adding cooked chicken, crab meat, or even spicy jalapeños for a kick.
FAQs
1. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the macaroni elbow pasta with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of Baked Mac and Cheese.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare it a day in advance, cover it well, and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
3. How can I make it creamier?
To make it creamier, add more cheese or a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce. This will enhance the creaminess of your Baked Mac and Cheese.