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Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish Recipe

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 22 reviews

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy baked mac and cheese recipe. Velvety cheese sauce coats tender elbow macaroni, baked to bubbly, golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta:

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente, drain, and set aside.
  2. Make the Roux: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until slightly golden.
  3. Build the Sauce: Gradually pour in whole milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Let simmer 3–5 minutes until lightly thickened.
  4. Add Cheese & Seasonings: Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Add 3 cups cheddar and all mozzarella, stirring until sauce is creamy.
  5. Combine with Pasta: Mix drained macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
  6. Assemble the Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the mac and cheese, sprinkle with ½ cup cheddar, then spread the remaining pasta. Top with the last ½ cup cheddar.
  7. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
  8. Serve: Cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mac and Cheese, Baked Macaroni, Comfort Food, Cheese Sauce

Find it online: https://maicook.com/grease-a-913-inch-baking-dish-recipe/