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–+ servings
Baked Mac and Cheese

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese for Cozy Family Gatherings

This creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that blends silky cheese sauce with a crispy topping, perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Macaroni Elbow pasta is traditional.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Provides a rich base.
  • 1/4 cup Flour (All-purpose) Essential for creating a roux.
  • 4 cups Milk At room temperature.
  • 1 cup Cheeses (Gruyere) Offers incredible flavor.
  • 1 cup Cheeses (Mozzarella) Gooey stretch.
For the Seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adds depth to flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Enhances overall taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Mustard Powder Elevates the cheese flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for balancing flavors.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Creates a crispy topping.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Butter Enhances crunchiness.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Mac and Cheese
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, cook macaroni for 6-7 minutes. Drain and cool slightly.
  2. Add melted unsalted butter to the warm pasta and toss until coated.
  3. Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Gradually whisk in 4 cups of milk and stir until thickened, about 4-5 minutes.
  5. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and salt; simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and mix in Gruyere and mozzarella until melted.
  7. Combine cheese sauce with macaroni in the pot, transfer to a greased dish, and sprinkle panko on top.
  8. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake for 25 minutes until golden.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 62gProtein: 24gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 450mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For extra flavor, incorporate sautéed garlic, onions, or bacon. Assemble a day ahead for convenience.

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