pasta with cheese

How to Make Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Baked macaroni and cheese, a beloved comfort food, combines creamy cheese with tender pasta, topped with a golden crust. Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe to master this dish.

Ingredients:

- 400g elbow macaroni

- 50g unsalted butter

- 50g all-purpose flour

- 500ml whole milk

- 200g cheddar cheese, shredded

- 100g Gruyère, shredded

- 1/2 tsp nutmeg

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Breadcrumb topping (optional: 1/2 cup breadcrumbs + 2 tbsp melted butter)

Steps:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually pour in milk, stirring constantly until thickened (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat; stir in cheddar, Gruyère, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until smooth.

3. Combine: Mix the cheese sauce with cooked pasta. Transfer to a baking dish.

4. Top and Bake: For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the pasta. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

Variations: Add cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or spinach for extra flavor. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving for the perfect creamy texture. Enjoy this hearty dish as a main course or a comforting side!