Description
A rich and creamy baked cheddar mac and cheese dish that is comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use a mix of cheeses.
- Add cooked bacon or vegetables for extra texture.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese, mac and cheese, baked macaroni