This Traditional Oven-Baked Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food. With its creamy, gooey cheese sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping, it's an irresistible dish that warms both body and soul.
First, you'll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 2-quart baking dish. This ensures your mac and cheese won't stick and will come out beautifully golden.
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the elbow macaroni until it's tender but still firm, which usually takes about 8 minutes. Drain it well and set it aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour, cooking for about 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This is your roux, the base of the sauce.
Slowly whisk in the milk to avoid lumps, bringing it to a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring constantly. After about 5 minutes, the sauce should thicken up nicely.
Take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until they're completely melted and the sauce is silky. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing until every piece of pasta is well-coated. Pour this into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Sprinkle the breadcrumbs across the top, which will create a lovely, crunchy topping once baked.
Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Let it cool slightly before serving to make sure it sets properly.
This mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It also makes a great side dish for grilled meats or a holiday feast.
Elbow macaroni is the perfect pasta for this dish because it holds the cheese sauce well, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Sharp cheddar cheese provides a bold and tangy flavor that melts beautifully into the sauce. Parmesan cheese adds a lovely nutty depth and a touch of sophistication. Milk is the base of our creamy sauce, giving it a luscious texture. Unsalted butter is used to create a roux with the all-purpose flour, which thickens the sauce. A little salt, black pepper, and paprika bring out the best in the cheese flavors. Finally, breadcrumbs are sprinkled on top for a delightful crunch.
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