This article provides a step-by-step guide and recipe for baked mac and cheese. The ingredients include elbow macaroni, unsalted butter, flour, whole milk, shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, panko breadcrumbs, and chopped fresh parsley. The instructions involve cooking the macaroni, making the cheese sauce, combining the two, and topping with breadcrumbs and parsley before baking. Variations include adding bacon or ham, vegetables like broccoli or spinach, different types of cheese, or spices for some heat. This classic comfort food is customizable and always delicious, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe Comfort Food Lovers Can’t Resist

Introduction

Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that everyone loves. Whether you’re feeling sad, happy, or just in need of a hearty meal, mac and cheese is always a good choice. This dish is easy to make, customizable, and is always a crowd-pleaser. In this article, we will share a step-by-step guide and recipe for baked mac and cheese that comfort food lovers can’t resist.

Ingredients

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the macaroni

Cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the cheese sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Add the cheese

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder and stir to combine.

Step 5: Combine the cheese sauce and macaroni

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and toss to coat evenly.

Step 6: Top with breadcrumbs and parsley

In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and chopped parsley. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the macaroni and cheese for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Serve hot.

Variations

Mac and cheese is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. Here are some variations you can try:

• Add bacon or ham for a smoky flavor
• Add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a healthier twist
• Use different types of cheese, such as Gouda or mozzarella, to change the flavor
• Add hot sauce, jalapenos, or other spices to add some heat

Conclusion

Baked mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that is easy to make and always delicious. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser and can be customized to your liking. Whether you make it for a family dinner or a potluck party, this dish is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and see for yourself why mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food.