Ah, creamy baked mac and cheese! This dish has a special place in my heart (and my belly!). I remember the first time I made it—it was during a rainy Saturday afternoon when I was feeling quite nostalgic for the good old days of childhood. The smell wafting through the house brought back memories of family gatherings and cozy movie nights where cheesy pasta was always the star of the show.
What I love about this creamy baked mac and cheese recipe is how it transforms the beloved classic into a decadent, gooey delight, baked to perfection with a crispy top. It’s like a big hug in a bowl! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, which is perfect for a busy weeknight or when you’re just craving something ultra-comforting. So, let’s get into it!
What’s in Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese?
Pasta: The star of the show! I usually prefer elbow macaroni for its classic appeal, but feel free to experiment with shells or cavatappi for a fun twist.
Butter: This rich ingredient helps to create a luxurious sauce and gives the dish its silky texture. Honestly, can you ever have too much butter?
All-purpose flour: This is the thickener that gives our cheese sauce that creamy consistency.
Milk: Whole milk works best for this recipe, creating a rich and creamy sauce. If you want to lighten it up a bit, you can mix in some low-fat milk.
Cheddar cheese: A must! Sharp cheddar lends flavor, while a block of mild cheddar melts beautifully. Go ahead and mix and match your favorites!
Panko breadcrumbs: These add that delightful crunchy topping that’s impossible to resist. Trust me, it’s worth the extra step!
Is Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Good for You?
Now, let’s dive a little into the health benefits—or lack thereof!
Pasta: While it’s high in carbohydrates, it provides energy for active days. Trying whole grain pasta can give you a bit more fiber!
Cheese: Yes, it’s deliciously rich, but cheese is also a good source of calcium and protein. Moderation is key here!
Butter and Milk: Both add creaminess and flavor, but also come with saturated fats. You can always opt for heart-healthy substitutes if you’re concerned.
So, while creamy baked mac and cheese might not win any health awards, it’s perfect for special occasions or those days when you really just need to indulge!
Ingredients
– 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 3 cups whole milk
– 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil (to mix with breadcrumbs)
– Optional: pinch of paprika or mustard powder for extra flavor
This recipe will serve about 4-6 people, depending on how big the hearts are!
How to Make Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese?
1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Cook the pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
3. **Make the cheese sauce:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, stirring for about 1-2 minutes until slightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, keeping it smooth. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
4. **Add the cheese:** Once thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in both types of cheese until fully melted and combined. Season with salt, pepper, and any added spices (hey, the paprika adds a lovely touch!).
5. **Combine pasta and sauce:** Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat every little piece of pasta.
6. **Prepare for baking:** Pour the cheesy pasta into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. **Make the topping:** In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the macaroni.
8. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.
9. **Serve and enjoy:** Let it rest for a few minutes before digging in to get the full cheesy experience!
Cheesy Tips & Serving Suggestions
– For extra flavor, try adding cooked bacon or diced tomatoes into the mix!
– Pair it with a simple green salad for some freshness.
– You can make this in advance! Just prepare it up to the baking step, refrigerate, and bake it when you’re ready.
– To make it really unique, consider experimenting with gourmet cheeses like Gruyère or smoked gouda for a twist on the classic.
I hope you give this creamy baked mac and cheese a try! It’s hearty, satisfying, and I’m sure it will create memories just like it did for me. And please, do share your own twists or experiences with this dish—I’d love to hear your stories! Happy cooking!
