Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
250 g (2 cups) elbow macaroni
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (warm)
1 cup heavy cream
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese (for topping)
½ cup parmesan cheese (optional)
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
½ tsp mustard powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta:
Boil the macaroni in salted water until just al dente (slightly firm). Drain and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to make a roux.
Gradually pour in the warm milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
Add the heavy cream and continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
3. Add cheese and seasoning:
Lower the heat and mix in cheddar and parmesan (save mozzarella for later).
Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder if desired.
Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine with pasta:
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well.
5. Bake:
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Sprinkle mozzarella (and extra cheddar if you like) on top.
Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly on top.
6. Serve:
Let it cool slightly, then enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
