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Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese

Irresistibly Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese Delight

Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese is a nostalgic, comforting dish that's easy to prepare and perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner Ideas
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni classic choice that traps all that gooey cheese!
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese divided; choose a good quality cheese for maximum flavor.
  • 2 cups whole milk this adds creaminess to your sauce.
  • 1 cup heavy cream enhances the richness of your mac-and-cheese.
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter helps make a flavorful roux for the sauce.
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour thickens the creamy concoction beautifully.
  • 1 teaspoon salt enhances all those rich, cheesy flavors.
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper provides a subtle kick!
  • ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder adds depth to your cheese sauce.
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika gives a hint of smokiness that elevates this dish.
For the Topping
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs for an extra crispy topping that contrasts the creaminess.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • large pot
  • large saucepan
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with unsalted butter.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package directions until slightly al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. Melt the unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the all-purpose flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
  4. Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Then add the heavy cream, stirring until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Stir in the salt, black pepper, dry mustard powder, and smoked paprika, whisking to evenly distribute the spices throughout the sauce.
  6. Gradually add in 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring gently until melted and the sauce is creamy.
  7. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
  8. Pour the mac-and-cheese mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
  9. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the cheese layer for an optional crispy crunch.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the top is lightly browned.
  11. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best results, cook elbow macaroni just until al dente. Use quality sharp cheddar cheese for flavor and avoid lumps by whisking constantly when adding milk to the roux.

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