This classic baked macaroni and cheese delivers the perfect balance of creamy cheese sauce and crispy golden topping. Made with everyday ingredients and simple techniques, it's the ultimate comfort food that both kids and adults will love. The secret is in creating a smooth, velvety cheese sauce that coats every piece of pasta.
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Ingredients
Ingredients
Equipment Needed
9x13 inch baking dish or large casserole dish
Large pot for boiling pasta
Colander
Large saucepan or Dutch oven
Whisk
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Cheese grater
Small bowl for topping mixture
This baked macaroni and cheese recipe walks you through creating a perfect cheese sauce from scratch and achieving that coveted crispy top. The key is cooking the pasta slightly underdone so it doesn't become mushy during baking, and making a smooth béchamel sauce as the base for your cheese sauce. Follow these steps for mac and cheese that's miles better than any boxed version.
For the best results, grate your cheese fresh rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. You can customize this recipe by adding cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or different cheese combinations. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
Important Allergy Notice: While we strive to provide accurate ingredient information, please be aware that our recipes may contain common allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, eggs, wheat, soy, shellfish, and fish. Always check ingredient labels carefully and consult your healthcare provider if you have any food allergies before preparing any recipe from this site.
