Description
A rich and creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipe loaded with cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Perfect as a comforting side dish or main for any meal.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp mustard powder
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional topping)
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
4. Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until sauce thickens.
5. Stir in salt, pepper, mustard powder, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and pour into prepared baking dish.
7. Top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs if using.
8. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
For extra creaminess, mix in a little cream cheese.
Use a mix of cheeses for deeper flavor.
Breadcrumb topping adds a crunchy texture but is optional.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Comfort Food
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Macaroni and Cheese, Baked Pasta, Cheesy Side Dish, Comfort Food