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Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe 3

Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Baked mac and cheese is a rich, creamy casserole made with tender pasta and a smooth cheese sauce.
It combines the meltability of cheese with the bold flavor of cheddar for a perfectly balanced dish. The baking step adds a lightly crisp top while keeping the inside soft and indulgent.
It is simple to prepare, feeds a crowd, and works for both casual meals and special occasions. This recipe delivers comfort, flavor, and consistency in every serving.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12
Calories: 334
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Butter or cooking spray for greasing
  • 1 pound large macaroni pasta
  • 16 ounces cheese cubed
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1.5 cups milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Colander
  • 9 x 13 inch baking dish

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven and grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until just tender. Drain and set aside.
  3. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then stir in flour and cook until it develops a light golden color and a slightly nutty aroma.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and thickened. Add the mustard, onion powder, cayenne, and black pepper, stirring to combine.
  5. Add the cubed cheese and continue stirring until fully melted and smooth.
  6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing gently until evenly coated.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
  8. Cover and bake until heated through and bubbling, then uncover and broil until the top is golden brown.

Notes

This mac and cheese is everything you want in a comfort dish: creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. It’s easy to make, versatile enough to customize, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it at home, it’s a recipe that never goes out of style.