🧀🍽️ Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese
📝 Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
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1 lb (450g) elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
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Salt, for boiling water
For the Cheese Sauce (Mornay Sauce):
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4 tbsp butter
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¼ cup all-purpose flour
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3 cups milk (whole milk recommended)
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1 cup heavy cream (optional; or use 4 cups milk total)
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp mustard powder or 1 tsp Dijon (optional, enhances cheese flavor)
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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3 cups shredded cheese, divided (cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, gruyère, etc.)
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+½ cup Parmesan (optional for added sharpness)
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For the Topping:
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1 cup panko or regular breadcrumbs
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2 tbsp butter, melted
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Optional: pinch of paprika, parsley, or grated Parmesan
👨🍳 Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
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Set to 375°F (190°C).
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Grease a 9×13″ baking dish or similar casserole pan.
2. Cook the Pasta:
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Boil macaroni in salted water until just al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package directions).
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Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
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In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
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Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes (don’t brown it).
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Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth.
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Add garlic powder, mustard, salt, and pepper.
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Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
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Remove from heat and stir in 2½ cups of the shredded cheese + Parmesan (if using). Mix until melted.
4. Combine with Pasta:
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Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat.
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Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish.
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Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheese over the top.
5. Prepare Topping:
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In a small bowl, combine melted butter with breadcrumbs and any seasoning.
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Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake:
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Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbling and golden brown on top.
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Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for an extra crispy top (optional).
✅ Tips & Variations:
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Extra Creamy Version: Stir in 2 oz cream cheese with the shredded cheese.
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Add-ins: Bacon bits, sautéed onions, jalapeños, or diced ham.
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Spicy Version: Use pepper jack cheese or add a dash of cayenne.
Would you like a Southern-style version with eggs, a one-pot stovetop version, or a baked mac & cheese with lobster or pulled pork?
