Are you ready to dive into the gooey, cheesy world of baked macaroni and cheese? This delightful dish is like a warm hug from the inside out. Perfect for a family dinner or just a cozy night in, this Easy Baked Macaroni & Cheese recipe will have you saying, “Just one more bowl, please!”
Feast Your Eyes!
First, let’s take a look at the picturesque allure of this cheesy masterpiece:
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Gather these goodies for the ultimate macaroni magic:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (for a little kick!)
- 2 cups milk
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (for that extra crunch)
Let’s Get Cooking!
Time to roll up those sleeves and get cheesy:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is where the magic happens!
- In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Bonus points if you sneak a few bites before it makes it to the cheese!
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth.
- Gradually add the milk to the pot, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes). It should turn into a creamy hug for the pasta!
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Your kitchen will smell like a cheesy paradise!
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheesy goodness and mix until well coated. This is where the real fun begins!
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish, and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese and breadcrumbs evenly on top. It’s time for a golden crust!
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes (if you can wait!). Serve up that cheesy dream and enjoy every creamy bite!
Now go forth, and impress everyone with your culinary cheese skills. They’ll never know it was this easy! Enjoy your cheesy adventure!
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source = www.madetobeamomma.com