Description
A classic and creamy baked mac and cheese recipe that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it forms a paste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and olive oil, then sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, add an extra half cup of milk to the cheese sauce.
- You can also mix in cooked bacon or diced tomatoes for added flavor.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or add jalapeños to the mac and cheese before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg