Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
This creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipe combines two types of cheddar cheese for a rich, flavorful dish. The macaroni is cooked al dente, then enveloped in a smooth, cheesy béchamel sauce, seasoned with a hint of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Baked to golden perfection, this comforting classic is perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Macaroni
- 16 ounces macaroni
Sauce
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1/2 tsp white pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
- 3 1/2 cups 2% milk
Cheese
- 8 ounces medium cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 8 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F to prepare for baking the macaroni and cheese later.
- Cook Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook for 8 to 9 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Melt Butter: In a heavy-bottomed large pot over medium heat, melt the butter carefully to avoid browning.
- Make Roux and Season: Sprinkle the flour, white pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper over the melted butter while whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and thickened slightly.
- Add Milk Gradually: Slowly incorporate the milk into the roux by adding it 1/2 cup at a time, whisking well after each addition until the sauce is smooth and fully combined.
- Stir in Cheese and Macaroni: Add all the medium cheddar cheese and half of the extra sharp cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted. Then fold in the cooked macaroni, coating it evenly with the cheese sauce.
- Assemble and Top: Pour the cheesy macaroni mixture into a 3-quart baking dish and sprinkle the remaining extra sharp cheddar cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes at 375 degrees F until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
- For an extra crispy top, you can broil the macaroni and cheese for 2-3 minutes after baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper slightly.
- Allow the macaroni and cheese to rest for 5 minutes after baking to set before serving.
- You can substitute whole milk for 2% milk for a richer sauce.
Keywords: baked macaroni and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, cheddar cheese macaroni, comfort food, homemade mac and cheese
