Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our Homemade Mac and Cheese Casserole! This creamy, cheesy delight is not just a dish; it’s a warm hug on a plate that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe promises to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a mouthwatering masterpiece that will leave your guests begging for seconds. Get ready to elevate your mac and cheese game to a whole new level!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
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 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 fully melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux, which will help thicken the cheese 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 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and add the shredded cheese, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy and uniform.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to ensure every pasta piece is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly across the top for a crispy golden crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes serving easier.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the macaroni until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This prevents it from becoming mushy in the casserole.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile. Cheddar is classic, but mixing in mozzarella, gouda, or even a bit of blue cheese can elevate your dish.
- Roux Technique: When making the roux, ensure the butter is fully melted before adding the flour. This will help create a smooth cheese sauce without lumps.
- Breadcrumb Topping: For an extra crunch, consider mixing the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and some grated parmesan cheese before sprinkling them on top.
- Let It Rest: After baking, allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the sauce set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 75mg
