Name: Baked Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 pound dry elbow macaroni (1 box); 5 tablespoons unsalted butter ((⅝ stick)); ¼ cup minced onion; 2 cloves garlic (minced); ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 3¼ cups whole milk (room temperature); ½ cup sour cream (room temperature); 4 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 cups freshly shredded Swiss cheese; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter ((⅜ stick)); 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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When I think of comfort food, the first dish that comes to mind is Baked Mac and Cheese. Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, the wind is howling outside, and I’m wrapped in a cozy blanket. I can hear the sounds of laughter from my family as they gather around the dinner table, eagerly awaiting this classic dish. There’s something about the aroma of melting cheese and butter that draws everyone into the kitchen, and as I pull the bubbling casserole from the oven, I can’t help but feel a sense of warmth and joy. This isn’t just any mac and cheese; it’s a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and laughter. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
50 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
400 kcal

Protein:
18g g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
20g g

Tools Used:
9×13 Baking Pan

What You’ll Enjoy About This Baked Mac and Cheese

Comfort in Every Bite

The first reason I love Baked Mac and Cheese is the sheer comfort it offers. It’s the kind of dish that wraps around you like a warm hug, making any day better.

Endless Variations

This recipe allows for endless creativity. You can mix and match different cheeses, add spices, or even sneak in some veggies. Whether you like it classic or with a twist, it’s hard to go wrong.

Perfect for Gatherings

It’s an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whenever I serve it at gatherings, I can see the smiles on everyone’s faces. It’s a dish that brings people together, making it perfect for any occasion.

Easy to Prepare

Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, don’t worry! This recipe is simple and straightforward, making it easy to impress your friends and family.

Leftovers Never Last

One of the best things about Baked Mac and Cheese is that leftovers are just as delightful. If there are any left, which is rare, they make for perfect lunch the next day.

Comfort Food Nostalgia

Lastly, this dish takes me back to my childhood. It’s a nostalgic recipe that reminds me of family dinners growing up. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a tradition.

Ingredient List for Baked Mac and Cheese

Every ingredient in this Baked Mac and Cheese plays an essential role in creating that creamy, cheesy goodness we all love. The combination of flavors and textures is what makes this dish so special. The star ingredients like dry elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, and Swiss cheese work together to elevate the classic recipe, while Panko breadcrumbs add a delightful crunchy topping. Let’s dive into the key players:

1 pound dry elbow macaroni (1 box) – The base of our dish, providing that comforting pasta texture.
5 tablespoons unsalted butter (⅝ stick) – Adds richness and helps cook the onions to perfection.
¼ cup minced onion – Introduces a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
2 cloves garlic minced – Enhances the dish with aromatic goodness.
¼ cup all-purpose flour – Thickens the cheese sauce for that creamy consistency.
3¼ cups whole milk room temperature – The liquid base that makes the cheese sauce creamy.
½ cup sour cream room temperature – Adds a tangy flavor and creaminess.
4 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese – This cheese gives our dish that classic flavor.
2 cups freshly shredded Swiss cheese – Adds a smooth and nutty flavor.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (⅜ stick) – Used for the topping to achieve perfect golden breadcrumbs.
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs – Creates a crispy topping that contrasts with the creamy filling.
½ teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances the flavors in the dish.
¼ teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a hint of garlic flavor throughout.
Chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish – A pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish.

Putting Together Baked Mac and Cheese

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s make this delicious Baked Mac and Cheese together! Follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll be enjoying a creamy and cheesy delight.

Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures your Baked Mac and Cheese will bake evenly and get that perfect golden color.
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the dry elbow macaroni. Cook it according to package directions until it’s al dente. You want it firm because it will continue cooking in the oven.
Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This will also help prevent it from sticking together.
In a large oven-safe skillet, melt 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced onion with a sprinkle of salt. Sauté for about two minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.
Add in the minced garlic and stir for another minute, until it becomes aromatic but not burnt.
Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, stirring until the mixture is pasty. This will be the base for our cheese sauce.
Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly. Keep whisking over low-medium heat until the mixture thickens. You want it to coat the back of a spoon.
Remove the skillet from the heat and whisk in the sour cream until fully incorporated. This adds creaminess.
Now it’s time to combine the cheeses! Add the sharp cheddar cheese and Swiss cheese to the skillet, reserving two cups for later. Stir until melted and smooth.
Gently fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring it’s fully coated in that cheesy goodness.
Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking pan. Spread it out evenly to ensure even baking.
In a small saucepan or skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the Panko breadcrumbs, kosher salt, and garlic powder, stirring until well combined.
Top the macaroni with the reserved cheese and the buttery breadcrumbs. This will create a delicious crunchy topping.
Finally, bake your Baked Mac and Cheese in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. You want it to be bubbly and golden brown on top.
Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If desired, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color.

Things Worth Knowing

Cook Pasta Carefully: Make sure you don’t overcook the pasta before baking. Al dente is ideal since it will continue to cook in the oven.
Cheese Selection: Use a mix of cheeses for the best flavor. Sharp cheddar gives a classic taste while Swiss adds creaminess.
Don’t Skimp on Butter: The butter in the breadcrumb topping is crucial for achieving that delicious crunch.
Let It Rest: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set and makes for cleaner servings.

Making Adjustments

There’s always room for adjustments in recipes, and this Baked Mac and Cheese is no exception. Here are some tips to help you personalize your dish:

Storage: Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Freezing: To freeze, portion the mac and cheese into airtight containers. Make sure to leave space for expansion as it freezes.
Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad for a lighter meal.
Add Vegetables: Consider adding steamed broccoli or peas for a nutritious boost.
Spice It Up: Feel free to add your favorite spices or hot sauce for an extra kick!

Serve This Baked Mac and Cheese With

When it comes to serving Baked Mac and Cheese, there are no hard and fast rules! Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this dish:

Side Salads: Pair with a refreshing green salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
Garlic Bread: Serve it alongside warm garlic bread for a comforting experience.
Family Gatherings: This dish is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or cozy dinners.
Seasonal Occasions: It’s a great addition to holiday meals, especially in winter!
Meal Prep: Make a large batch and portion it for quick lunches during the week.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake it, simply remove it from the refrigerator, and you may need to adjust the baking time slightly since it will be cold.

Leftover Baked Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Of course! The beauty of Baked Mac and Cheese lies in its versatility. You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack. Just remember to balance the flavors so they complement each other.

There are plenty of options to enhance your Baked Mac and Cheese. You can add sautéed vegetables, such as broccoli or spinach, for added nutrition. Crispy toppings like crushed crackers or bacon bits can provide a delightful crunch. Consider also spices like paprika or cayenne for a bit of heat!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Baked Mac and Cheese is a timeless dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Its creamy, cheesy goodness and delightful crunch make it a family favorite. I encourage you to try making it yourself and experience the warm nostalgia it brings. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to be a hit!