This easy baked mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Perfect as a comforting main dish or side for any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Slowly add milk, whisking constantly until thickened, about 4–5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth.
- Combine the cheese sauce with cooked macaroni and pour into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
- Let cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Tips
- Use a mix of cheeses for richer flavor.
- Do not overcook the pasta before baking.
- Optional: add breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy crust.
- Serve immediately for best texture and creaminess.
Conclusion
This baked mac and cheese is a comforting, cheesy dish that’s perfect for family meals, cozy nights, or casual get-togethers. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.