CREAMY BAKED MAC AND CHEESE

Introduction

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is a comfort food classic that many people cherish. This dish features tender elbow macaroni pasta smothered in a rich and creamy cheese sauce, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings, holidays, or cozy nights at home. Easy to prepare, it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Why Make This Recipe

If you love mac and cheese, this recipe takes it to the next level. It combines a mix of cheeses for a smooth and gooey texture that’s absolutely irresistible. Plus, it’s baked to perfection, creating a golden top that adds extra flavor and crunch. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is guaranteed to impress.

How to Make Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Making Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is straightforward and requires just a few steps.

Ingredients:

1 lb. dry elbow macaroni pasta
½ cup salted butter
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk, at room temperature (2% or whole milk work well)
2 cups half-and-half, at room temperature
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
12 ounces cubed Velveeta cheese, at room temperature
3 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese, divided (at room temperature)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon dry mustard
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Pinch of nutmeg

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta for 1 minute less than the package suggestion for al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
While the pasta is boiling, melt the butter in a large Dutch oven (about 6-7 quarts) over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in the milk and half-and-half. Bring to a boil over medium heat, continuing to whisk. Remove from heat.
Whisk in the Worcestershire sauce. Gradually add all of the Velveeta cheese and half of the cheddar cheese (1 ½ cups). Stir until the cheese is completely melted and smooth.
Stir in the salt, dry mustard, pepper, and nutmeg. Add the cooked and drained pasta, stirring to coat well.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups of grated cheddar on top. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbly.
For a crispier, browner top, pop the dish under the broiler for 2-5 minutes.

ENJOY!

How to Serve Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Serve this delicious dish hot from the oven. It pairs nicely with a simple salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside grilled chicken or a hearty protein for a more filling dinner.

How to Store Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3 to 5 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. You can also use the microwave for quicker reheating, just be sure to cover it to keep the moisture in.

Tips to Make Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Make sure your cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the sauce for easier melting.
Don’t skip the step of tossing the pasta in olive oil after draining to prevent it from sticking together.
For an even creamier texture, you can add more cheese or use a mix of different types of cheese.

Variation (If Any)

If you want to switch it up, consider adding cooked bacon, broccoli, or even diced tomatoes for added flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different cheese blends.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of pasta? Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, but elbow macaroni is traditional for mac and cheese.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

3. Is there a way to make it vegetarian? Yes! This dish is already vegetarian. Just ensure all your dairy products are animal-free if you’re looking for a strict vegetarian option.