Description
A cozy family classic, this creamy baked macaroni and cheese is perfect for family gatherings and quick dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumb topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni for about 2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly. Add the flour, whisking constantly for about 1 minute until lightly golden.
- Gradually pour in the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted.
- Mix the drained macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring every pasta piece is coated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked broccoli or crispy bacon. You can also experiment with different cheeses.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: macaroni and cheese, creamy, baked, comfort food, family recipe