Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Overview
This warm and comforting Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a timeless favorite, elevated with a hint of Dijon mustard for a unique twist. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish can be customized by adding cooked ham and frozen peas to transform it into a hearty main course. Let’s dive into the detailed steps to create this delicious dish!
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups macaroni
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 1 3/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tbsp additional butter for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Cook the Macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. |
| 2 | Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes to make a roux. |
| 3 | Add Milk: Gradually pour in the warm milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook and stir for about 4 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. |
| 4 | Season and Flavor: Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, and chopped parsley. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is well combined. |
| 5 | Assemble and Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Transfer the cooked macaroni into the baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and gently stir to coat evenly. |
| 6 | Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden on top. |
| 7 | Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade Baked Macaroni and Cheese while it’s warm and gooey! |
Tips for Variation
- Additions: For a heartier meal, mix in cooked ham and frozen peas along with the macaroni before baking.
- Topping: Experiment with different toppings like breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for added texture and flavor.
- Cheese: Feel free to substitute or mix different cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack to customize the flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 355.3
- Total Fat: 17.2g
- Saturated Fat: 10.5g
- Cholesterol: 50.6mg
- Sodium: 438.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 35.6g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Sugars: 1.2g
- Protein: 14.3g
This Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its creamy texture, combined with the savory cheese and hint of mustard, makes it a standout dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe guarantees comfort and satisfaction with every bite.
