This Traditional Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a comforting, timeless classic that never fails to delight. With a creamy cheese sauce and a perfectly crispy topping, it’s perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
The star of this dish is, of course, the elbow macaroni. It’s the perfect pasta shape to hold onto the cheese sauce, giving you a delightful bite every time. The sharp cheddar cheese is key for that classic mac and cheese flavor, while the whole milk helps create a rich, creamy base. Unsalted butter and all-purpose flour come together to form a roux, which thickens the sauce and adds a lovely richness. A pinch of salt and black pepper enhances the flavors, making the dish pop. The parmesan cheese adds a nutty depth to the breadcrumb topping, which is seasoned with paprika for a subtle kick and a beautiful color.
This macaroni and cheese pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or some roasted veggies. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside barbecue ribs or roasted chicken. A glass of crisp white wine complements the cheesy richness perfectly.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for your masterpiece. While that's happening, cook your macaroni according to the package instructions. Once it’s perfectly al dente, drain it and set it aside.
Next, grab a saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s all melted, stir in the flour, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture until it’s smooth and bubbly, which means the flour is nicely cooked out.
Now, the magic happens: Gradually whisk in the milk. Keep stirring until the mixture comes to a gentle boil and thickens. This is your creamy sauce base. Remove it from the heat, and stir in the cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted and smooth.
Combine this luscious cheese sauce with your cooked macaroni, ensuring every piece is coated evenly. Pour everything into a greased baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
For the topping, mix the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and paprika together. Sprinkle this evenly over your macaroni for that irresistible crispy finish.
Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling with cheesy goodness. Let it cool slightly before serving, if you can resist.
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