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Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese

Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese Your New Comfort Food Classic

This Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese is a comforting dish that's easy to make and perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Feel free to swap in penne or fusilli.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese Divided, consider a blend of cheeses.
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Low-fat or skim works for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Can be omitted for a lighter sauce.
  • 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter Salted butter is a substitute.
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for gluten-free.
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to your liking.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper White pepper can be used for a subtler flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dry Mustard Powder Omit if you prefer a simpler flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Substitute with regular paprika if needed.
For the Topping
  • 1/4 cup Breadcrumbs Optional, mix with melted butter for crispiness.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large saucepan
  • Whisk
  • 9x13-inch baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Boil salted water and cook 2 cups of elbow macaroni until slightly al dente, about 6-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat, then whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
  4. Gradually stir in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Season the sauce with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of dry mustard powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in 4 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated.
  8. Transfer the mixture to the baking dish, top with remaining cheese and 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly, watching closely towards the end.
  10. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 15gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure to use freshly shredded cheddar for better melting. Allow resting before serving for the best texture.

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