Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Classic baked macaroni and cheese is a comfort food favorite that is loved by people of all ages. It is creamy, cheesy, and gooey, and it is perfect for any gathering. It is a very versatile dish that can be easily made ahead of time and reheated.
Equipment
- 9 × 13-inch baking dish
- nonstick cooking spray
- large saucepan
- large pot with lid
- whisk
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons dry mustard
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 4 cups whole milk room temperature
- 16 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese shredded, divided
- 16 ounces dried elbow macaroni
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a large saucepan or saucier over medium-low heat, melt the butter.
- When the butter begins to sizzle slightly, add the flour, dry mustard, and salt. Whisk with the butter to form a light roux.
- Whisk in the milk one cup at a time; continue whisking until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Reduce heat to low. Whisk in 12 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese, one handful at a time, until melted after each addition. Stir until smooth without letting the sauce boil vigorously. Keep warm over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Reserve the remaining 4 ounces of cheese for the topping.
- Cook the pasta according to package directions for al dente. Drain without rinsing, then return it to the pot.
- Pour the hot cheese sauce over the pasta and stir to combine.
- Coat a 9 × 13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese to the prepared dish and top with the reserved 4 ounces of shredded cheddar.
- Bake in the preheated 375°F oven for 30 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let stand for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Video
Nutrition
Calories: 582kcalCarbohydrates: 53gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 17gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 86mgSodium: 712mgPotassium: 363mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 941IUVitamin C: 0.04mgCalcium: 567mgIron: 1mg
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