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Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese

Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese That Melts Hearts

This Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese is a comforting dish perfect for family gatherings, bringing warmth and joy to your dinner table.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni Feel free to swap it with penne or shells for a different texture.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese Freshly shredded cheese melts blissfully better than pre-packaged.
  • 2 cups whole milk Low-fat milk can be used for a lighter variation.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Substituting with more milk is an option for a lighter recipe.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter Essential for flavor; base for a smooth roux.
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Use gluten-free flour for a fabulous gluten-free option.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust according to your taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Adds a subtle kick.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder Deepens the cheese flavor; skip if sensitive to mustard.
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika Opt for regular paprika for a mellower effect.
For the Crunchy Topping
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs Mix with melted butter for a golden finish.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • medium saucepan
  • large pot
  • whisk

Method
 

Step‑By‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
  2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook 12 ounces of elbow macaroni to al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour for about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream into the roux, whisking continuously. Cook for 3-5 minutes until thickened.
  5. Stir in 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of dry mustard powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika.
  6. Add 4 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
  7. Fold in the cooked macaroni, ensuring each piece is coated with the cheese sauce.
  8. Pour the mac-and-cheese mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading evenly. Optionally sprinkle remaining cheddar on top.
  9. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs over the top, mixing with melted butter if desired.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
  11. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 15gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 400mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese and feel free to prepare ahead for convenience.

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