American
👍 Beginner Friendly
1h 5measy
AmericanDinner
Recipe Story
origins & traditionsThis classic American baked mac and cheese brings together tender pasta in a velvety cheese sauce made from scratch with butter, flour, and milk. The combination of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella creates layers of flavor that satisfy even the most discerning cheese lovers. Topped with seasoned breadcrumbs and baked until golden and bubbly, this dish delivers the perfect contrast between the crispy top and the smooth, creamy interior. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this timeless recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. The recipe is versatile enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for special gatherings. With simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, home cooks of all skill levels can achieve restaurant-quality results that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with butter and set aside.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 2 minutes to create a roux, ensuring it doesn't brown.
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese until completely melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika to taste.
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is well coated.
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and a pinch of paprika. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the pasta.
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.
Classic Baked Mac and Cheese
5.0 (31)
A rich and creamy baked macaroni and cheese with a golden breadcrumb topping, featuring a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses that create the ultimate comfort food experience for any dinner table.
medium
55 min
8 servings
Ingredients
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Main
- 1 pounds pasta, elbow macaroni
- 6 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1/4 cups flour, all-purpose
- 4 cups milk, whole milk preferred
- 3 cups cheese-cheddar, shredded sharp cheddar
- 1 1/2 cups cheese-mozzarella, shredded
Topping
- 1 cups breadcrumbs, plain or panko
Seasoning
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoons black-pepper, freshly ground
- 1/2 teaspoons paprika, for color and flavor
Chef Tips
expert advice•For extra flavor, try mixing in a teaspoon of mustard powder into the cheese sauce - it enhances the cheese flavor without adding a mustard taste.
•You can also experiment with different cheese combinations such as adding gruyere or fontina for a more sophisticated flavor profile.
•If you prefer a crispier topping, place the dish under the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
•For a smoky variation, add crumbled cooked bacon between layers.
•To make this dish ahead, prepare through step 7, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
•Add 10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
•For individual portions, divide the mixture into ramekins and reduce baking time to 15-20 minutes.
