Rich Baked Mac and Cheese
A warm and decadent dish where creamy cheese meets tender pasta, this baked mac and cheese is ultimate comfort food—simple to make and loved by all ages.
Ingredients
Pasta and Base Ingredients
- 8 oz Elbow Macaroni Base of the dish, soft and chewy when cooked.
- 4 tbsp Salted Butter Adds richness and helps create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Thickens the cheese sauce, ensuring every bite is luscious.
- 2 cups Whole Milk Makes everything creamy without being too heavy.
- 3 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese Delivers bold flavorful notes.
- 2 large Eggs Bind the dish and add to the custardy texture.
- 1 tsp Salt Enhances the flavors of all ingredients.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes.
- Drain and set aside.
Cooking and Assembling
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth; cook until it thickens.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Mix in the eggs and salt, then combine with the cooked macaroni.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, topping with extra cheese.
Baking and Serving
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool slightly, then scoop out generous portions.
- Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Notes
Mix sharp cheddar with mozzarella for added creaminess. Pasta should be cooked al dente to prevent mushiness after baking.