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Family Favorite Baked Mac and Cheese

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A rich, creamy baked mac and cheese combining multiple cheeses and tender pasta, topped with a golden crust—perfect for family meals and gatherings.

Ingredients

1 lb elbow macaroni

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

1 cup half-and-half

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon ground mustard

1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water for 4–5 minutes, until just under al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat.
  4. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
  5. Slowly add the milk and half-and-half, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
  6. Stir in salt, pepper, ground mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
  7. Cook the sauce, whisking frequently, until it thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
  8. Remove the pot from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
  9. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
  10. Transfer half of the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  11. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup of the remaining cheddar cheese.
  12. Top with the remaining mac and cheese mixture and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese.
  13. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown.
  14. Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
  • Incorporate crumbled cooked bacon for a bacon lover’s version.
  • Add steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian variation.
  • Substitute some milk with heavy cream for extra creaminess.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
  • Reheat in microwave or oven, adding milk if needed to maintain creaminess.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce.
  • To make the top crispy, sprinkle extra cheese or breadcrumbs before baking.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyjanet.com/family-favorite-baked-mac-and-cheese-recipe/