Why Make This Recipe
Ah, Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese—a dish that’s basically a warm hug on a plate. Why should you whip this up? Well, for starters, it’s the ultimate comfort food. The combination of gooey cheese, tender pasta, and a crispy topping creates a symphony of flavors that tickle your taste buds. Plus, it’s super easy to make, which means more quality time with Netflix and less time stressing in the kitchen. Who doesn’t want that? 😄
How to Make Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Making this cheesy goodness is a breeze. You don’t need to be a master chef; just follow these simple steps and you’re golden. It’s all about that creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked macaroni. Don’t worry; I’ve outlined everything you need to know.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Don’t skip this part; it’s crucial for that perfect bake.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside. Make sure to not overcook, or you’ll end up with mushy pasta. No one wants that!
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes. We’re building a foundation here!
- Gradually whisk in the milk and keep it cooking until the sauce thickens. Keep stirring, or it might turn you into a lump of frustration.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until they melt into a delicious gooeyness. Cue the angels singing!
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce. Give it a little taste test—yum!
- Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and stir until every noodle gets covered in cheesy awesomeness.
- Transfer this dreamy mix to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs if you’re feelin’ fancy, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden.
- Serve warm and enjoy your cheesy masterpiece! Seriously, you just made magic happen.
How to Serve Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Serve this cheesy delight as a main dish or as a side. It pairs gloriously with a fresh salad or some buttery garlic bread. Got leftovers? It’s even better the next day! Just take a moment to appreciate that glorious cheese pull when you dig in. It’s an Instagram moment waiting to happen. 📸
How to Store Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Got too much cheesy goodness? No worries! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the oven when you’re ready to devour that cheesy joy (add a splash of milk while reheating to keep it creamy).
Tips to Make Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
- Experiment with different types of cheese! Feel free to mix in some gouda or pepper jack for a twist.
- Don’t skip the breadcrumbs if you like that crispy top—seriously, it’s the cherry on top (minus the cherry, of course).
- For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or sautéed veggies to the mix. Because why not?
- Remember to stir frequently while making the cheese sauce to avoid those pesky lumps.
Variation
Feeling fancy? Try adding truffle oil for a gourmet touch. Or, if you’re in a health-conscious mood, throw in some steamed broccoli or spinach before baking. It’s like sneaking veggies into a cheesy paradise. Sneaky, but effective! 😉
FAQs
1. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! You can swap out the elbow macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just remember to adjust the cooking time.
2. How do I make it spicier?
Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a little kick. Spice it up, baby! 🔥
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Totally! You can assemble it in advance, cover it tightly, and pop it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to enjoy that cheesy goodness!
Now what are you waiting for? Get cooking and enjoy this cheesy dream! 🍽️
Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni Cook according to package instructions.
Cheeses
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Sauce Base
- 2 tablespoons butter Melt in a saucepan.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Mix with butter to create a roux.
- 2 cups milk Gradually add to the roux.
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- to taste Salt and pepper
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Optional for crispy topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
Making the Cheese Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and keep cooking until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce.
Combining and Baking
- Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until every noodle is covered.
- Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs if desired, and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
Want just the essential recipe details without scrolling through the article? Get our printable recipe card with just the ingredients and instructions.