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Creamy oven baked macaroni and cheese served in a dish

Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

A nostalgic dish featuring perfectly cooked macaroni enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce for a comforting meal that’s perfect for gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 16 ounces macaroni These small pasta tubes are perfect for holding onto the creamy cheese sauce.
Cheese Sauce
  • 1/3 cup butter Melted butter will bring richness to the dish.
  • 1/3 cup flour This will help to thicken your cheese sauce.
  • 1/2 tsp white pepper A subtle heat that elevates the flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp salt Essential for bringing out the natural flavors.
  • 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper Just a pinch will add warmth.
  • 3 1/2 cups 2% milk This adds creaminess to the sauce.
  • 8 ounces medium cheddar cheese (shredded) The backbone of the cheese sauce, giving a mild flavor.
  • 8 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese (shredded) Adds depth and a punchy flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook for about 8 to 9 minutes until tender but al dente. Strain the pasta and set it aside.
Making the Sauce
  1. In a heavy-bottomed large pot over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbling. Sprinkle the flour, white pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper over the melted butter, whisking continuously until smooth, creating a roux.
  2. Gradually incorporate the milk into the roux, adding it in increments of 1/2 cup while stirring constantly.
  3. Once your sauce is smooth, add all of the medium cheddar cheese along with half of the extra sharp cheddar. Stir until all the cheese is melted.
  4. Toss the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated.
Baking
  1. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a 3-quart baking dish and top with the remaining extra sharp cheddar cheese.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Notes

Feel free to mix different types of cheese for variety. For added texture, consider mixing breadcrumbs with melted butter on top before baking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.