Description
🧀 Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this homemade mac and cheese casserole—rich, creamy, and baked to golden perfection! 🍽️
🔥 Packed with gooey cheese and a crispy topping, it’s a must-try dish for cozy family dinners and holiday gatherings! 🥄✨
Ingredients
Elbow macaroni
Butter
Flour
Milk
Cheddar cheese (sharp recommended)
Gruyere cheese (optional)
Parmesan cheese (optional)
Salt
Black pepper
Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
Eggs (optional, for a custard-like texture)
Bacon (optional, for added flavor)
Vegetables (optional, such as broccoli or spinach)
Garlic powder (optional, for seasoning)
Paprika (optional, for seasoning)
Instructions
1. Boil the elbow macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Stir in flour and cook for a minute to form a roux.
4. Slowly whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
5. Reduce heat and add shredded cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
6. Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and any desired spices.
7. Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, mixing well.
8. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased casserole dish.
9. Sprinkle additional cheese or breadcrumbs on top for a crispy crust.
10. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
11. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
12. Enjoy as a main dish or side dish for any occasion.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for a smoother, creamier sauce.
Cook the pasta until just al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft while baking.
For extra flavor, mix different cheeses like sharp cheddar, gruyere, and parmesan in the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American