Are you craving a creamy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible mac and cheese experience that feels like a warm hug from grandma's kitchen? Look no further! This farmhouse-style baked mac and cheese is about to revolutionize your comfort food game, delivering a perfect blend of crispy breadcrumb topping and ooey-gooey cheese that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. Prepare to elevate your mac and cheese from ordinary to extraordinary with this mouthwatering recipe that promises to become an instant family favorite.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to create a smooth roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Add 3 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to ensure all pasta is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let the mac and cheese rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and enjoy your farmhouse-style baked mac and cheese.
Tips
- Use high-quality, freshly shredded cheese for the best melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Cook your pasta just shy of al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven and absorb the cheese sauce.
- Whisk your roux (butter and flour mixture) constantly to prevent burning and ensure a smooth sauce.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- Let the mac and cheese rest after baking to allow the sauce to set and make serving easier.
- For a crispy top, broil the mac and cheese for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Experiment with cheese combinations like adding some sharp white cheddar or gruyère for more complex flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 580kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 100mg
