Baked Mac and Cheese

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Macaroni and cheese is a creamy pasta casserole made with macaroni and a rich cheese sauce, then baked until bubbly with a golden crust.

Classic Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 4 tbsp flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella or Monterey Jack
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook macaroni until slightly firm; drain.
  2. Melt butter in a pan, whisk in flour, and cook 1 minute.
  3. Slowly add milk while whisking until smooth and thickened.
  4. Stir in cheeses and seasonings until melted.
  5. Mix sauce with macaroni.
  6. Pour into a baking dish and top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs.
  7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Popular Variations

  • Southern-style extra cheesy
  • Smoked gouda mac
  • Buffalo chicken mac
  • Lobster mac and cheese
  • Jalapeño bacon mac

Tips

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother sauce.
  • Mix multiple cheeses for deeper flavor.
  • Slightly undercook pasta before baking to avoid mushiness.

Would you like a:

  • stovetop version,
  • baked spicy version,
  • Pakistani-style twist,
  • or a quick 30-minute recipe?

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