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Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese

A creamy, cheesy baked mac and cheese with tender pasta, a smooth cheddar cheese sauce, and a golden baked topping. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or cozy comfort food nights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs optional
  • 1/2 cup extra shredded cheese for topping optional

Equipment

  • 1 large pot
  • 1 saucepan
  • 1 whisk
  • 1 baking dish

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  2. Cook the macaroni in salted water until just al dente, then drain.
  3. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  4. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
  5. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth.
  6. Cook, stirring often, until the sauce thickens.
  7. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese and mozzarella or Monterey Jack until melted.
  8. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
  9. Add the cooked macaroni and stir until coated in the cheese sauce.
  10. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish.
  11. Top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese if using.
  12. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
  13. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For the smoothest cheese sauce, grate the cheese yourself if possible and add it over low heat. Cook the pasta just until al dente because it will continue baking in the oven. Add a splash of milk when reheating leftovers to bring back the creamy texture.