Cheeses baked macaroni and cheese –Gather around, y’all! Today we’re diving into a classic dish that warms the heart and fills the belly—Baked Macaroni and Cheese. This ain’t just any mac and cheese; it’s the kind that brings everyone to the table and gets the family talking. Whether you’re cooking for a Sunday dinner or a weekday treat, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Let’s get into it!
Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese
There’s something about a cheesy, gooey, baked macaroni that makes you feel right at home. Let me show you how to whip this up in no time!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 2-quart baking dish.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and set to the side.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and continue to cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well to combine.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
And there you have it! This Baked Macaroni and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and downright delicious. Serve it up hot and watch it disappear in seconds. Enjoy this favorite with your loved ones, and don’t forget to make enough for seconds—trust me, they’ll be asking for it!
