Baked Mac and Cheese

Recipe VIDEO above. Still the best Baked Mac and Cheese I’ve ever had in my life! This dish is perfect for gatherings, delivering a creamy cheese sauce topped with a crunchy, buttery finish. Unlike many Macaroni Cheese recipes, it won’t dry out or become stodgy thanks to the extra step of tossing the macaroni in butter. This ensures a consistently saucy dish right out of the oven. TOP TIP: Grate your own cheese; store-bought options can contain anti-caking agents that may affect the texture of your sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra Creamy Texture: The combination of multiple cheeses creates an irresistibly smooth and rich sauce.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This recipe serves 6-8 people, making it ideal for parties and family dinners.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add-ins like vegetables or meats.
• Quick Prep Time: With only 10 minutes of preparation, you can have this dish ready to bake in no time.
• Great Leftovers: This Baked Mac and Cheese reheats beautifully, maintaining its creamy goodness.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Baking dish
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling the macaroni efficiently without overcrowding.
• Baking dish: A good size ensures even cooking and perfect presentation when serving.
• Whisk: Essential for smoothly mixing the cheese sauce without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 250g / 8 oz macaroni (elbow pasta)

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp (15g) unsalted butter (or 2 tsp oil)
• 4 tbsp (60g) unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup flour (plain / all purpose)
• 3 cups milk (warmed, low or full fat)
• 2 cups freshly shredded cheese (gruyere best; followed by cheddar and Colby)
• 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Topping

• 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter (melted)

Seasonings

• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp mustard powder

How to Make Baked Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Baked Mac and Cheese cooks evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
2. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
3. Drain the pasta and toss it with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter.
2. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until lightly golden.
3. Gradually add warmed milk, whisking constantly until smooth.
4. Once thickened, reduce heat and stir in both types of shredded cheese until melted.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce along with garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure every piece of pasta is coated in that luscious sauce.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Pour half of the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the panko breadcrumbs on top. Layer with remaining mac and cheese followed by more breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy Baked Mac and Cheese, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Baked Mac and Cheese

Baked Mac and Cheese is a versatile dish that can suit various occasions and preferences. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Family Style

• Serve it in a large, shallow dish for everyone to scoop out their portions. This invites sharing and makes the dish the star of the table.

Individual Portions

• Use ramekins or small baking dishes for individual servings. This adds a personal touch and is perfect for gatherings.

Topped with Extras

• Enhance each serving by adding toppings like crispy bacon bits or fresh herbs. This adds flavor and texture to your Baked Mac and Cheese.

Paired with Salad

• A light, refreshing salad complements the richness of the cheese. Consider a simple green salad with vinaigrette.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pairing your Baked Mac and Cheese with grilled chicken or shrimp offers a satisfying contrast of flavors and textures.

As a Comfort Food Side

• Serve it alongside classic comfort foods like fried chicken or meatloaf for a nostalgic meal that hits all the right spots.

How to Perfect Baked Mac and Cheese

Perfecting your Baked Mac and Cheese takes practice, but these tips can help you achieve that creamy, cheesy goodness every time.

• Grate Your Own Cheese: Using freshly shredded cheese prevents graininess caused by anti-caking agents found in store-bought varieties.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the macaroni al dente so that it holds its shape during baking and absorbs just the right amount of sauce.
• Add Extra Sauce: Ensure it’s extra saucy before going into the oven; this keeps it moist as it bakes.
• Use Quality Butter: Opt for unsalted butter for better control over saltiness, ensuring balanced flavors in your dish.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Mixing different types of cheese can enhance flavor; try combining Gruyere, cheddar, and mozzarella for depth.
• Let It Rest: Allow your Baked Mac and Cheese to sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set up perfectly for serving.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Mac and Cheese

Baked Mac and Cheese pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery side that is perfect for scooping up any extra cheese sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection add color, nutrition, and flavor to your plate.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with creamy mac and cheese.
4. Steamed Broccoli: The slight bitterness of broccoli balances out the richness of the cheese sauce while adding nutrition.
5. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with creamy dressing enhances the overall meal experience while providing a refreshing bite.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a delightful pop of flavor that pairs well with cheesy dishes.
7. Fried Green Tomatoes: These crispy treats offer a savory contrast that complements the creamy textures of baked mac and cheese.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with grains or meats add substance to your meal while being visually appealing on the plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Mac and Cheese, even small mistakes can impact the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the cheese grating: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Grate your own cheese for a creamy texture.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the macaroni too long, it can become mushy when baked. Cook it just until al dente for the best results.
• Not using enough sauce: A common mistake is skimping on the cheese sauce. Ensure you have a generous amount to keep your mac and cheese creamy and delicious.
• Using cold milk: Cold milk can cause clumping in your cheese sauce. Always warm your milk before adding it to the mixture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Baked Mac and Cheese needs flavor! Don’t forget to season your sauce with salt, garlic powder, and mustard powder for a tasty result.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Baked Mac and Cheese

• Place in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Baked Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of milk in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions commonly asked about Baked Mac and Cheese:

Can I use different types of cheese for Baked Mac and Cheese?

Yes! You can customize this dish by using various cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for added flavor.

How do I make my Baked Mac and Cheese extra creamy?

To achieve a creamier texture, ensure you use freshly grated cheese and add more milk to your sauce if needed.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover Baked Mac and Cheese?

The oven method is recommended as it helps retain creaminess. Add a little milk before reheating to keep it moist.

Can I add vegetables or meat to my Baked Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! Broccoli, spinach, or cooked chicken can enhance both flavor and nutrition in your dish.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Mac and Cheese recipe is not only ultra-creamy but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Feel free to customize with your favorite cheeses or mix-ins like bacon or vegetables. Try making it today!