If you’re craving comfort food, look no further than this Homestyle Baked Macaroni and Cheese. It's creamy, cheesy, and topped with a perfectly crisp breadcrumb layer. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck with friends.
Elbow macaroni is the classic pasta choice for this dish, providing just the right amount of chewiness to hold the creamy cheese sauce. Unsalted butter is used to create the base of the sauce and helps the breadcrumbs achieve a golden crust. All-purpose flour combines with the butter to make a roux, thickening the sauce to the perfect consistency. Whole milk adds creaminess and richness, while sharp cheddar cheese brings a tangy, robust flavor that stands out. Parmesan cheese lends a touch of nuttiness and depth. A bit of salt and black pepper season the dish just right. Finally, breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter create a delightful crunchy topping.
This hearty mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts. It’s also a great side dish for grilled chicken or a juicy steak.
First things first, let’s get your oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). Now, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until it's just al dente. This usually takes about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
Next, grab a medium saucepan and melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk it together until smooth. You’ll want to keep whisking for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
Now, gradually pour in the whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Let the mixture cook until it thickens up a bit — it should coat the back of a spoon nicely. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese until they're melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Transfer your cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat every piece in that creamy goodness. Pour the cheesy macaroni into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of melted butter, mixing until the breadcrumbs are well coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
Slide the dish into the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving, allowing the sauce to set slightly.
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