Baked Mac And Cheese

Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cups milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1 pinch paprika

You’ll also need a large pot, a baking dish, and a saucepan. Using various types of cheeses creates a deep flavor that makes this dish stand out. If you’re lactose intolerant, you can substitute lactose-free milk and cheeses available in the market.

How To Make Baked Mac And Cheese

1. First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Cook macaroni according to the package directions. Drain.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter or margarine over medium heat. Stir in enough flour to absorb all of the melted butter.
4. Slowly pour milk into butter-flour mixture while continuously stir until mixture is smooth and bubbling. Add about two cups of cheddar cheese and cook until cheese is fully melted, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Pour cheese over the cooked macaroni in a large bowl and stir well.
6. Move macaroni into a baking dish and top with bread crumbs and a few dots of butter.
7. Bake in the preheated oven until cheese is crispy and bubbling, approximately 30 minutes.

Tips For The Best Results

• Use different types of cheeses for a broader flavor profile.
• Make sure to cook your pasta “al dente” so it doesn’t get mushy when baked.
• The bread crumbs on top give the mac & cheese a crunchy texture. Don’t skimp on this.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers can be tightly covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days.
• You can also freeze individual portions for quick and easy microwave meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use non-dairy milk for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use non-dairy milks like almond milk or soy milk as long as they are unsweetened.

Q: Can this dish be made gluten-free?
A: Yes, by using gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour varieties.

Q: What cheese other than cheddar can you recommend for this recipe?
A: Besides cheddar, you can try adding mozzarella, gruyere, or fontina cheese for added flavor.

Q: Can I add some vegetables in this recipe?
A: Definitely! Adding vegetables can provide additional nutrition and flavor. Some great examples are bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions.

Q: I do not have a baking dish, can I make this on the stovetop instead?
A: Indeed, you can. Be sure to keep a tight lid on it, and let it simmer over low heat. Be sure to keep stirring it though.

Nutritional Facts of Baked Mac And Cheese

Each serving of Baked Mac And Cheese is around 410 calories, with 18 grams of protein, 19 grams of fat, and 44 grams of carbs. It also has plenty of Calcium and Vitamin A, so dig in without any guilt!