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Baked Cheddar Mac and Cheese

A creamy and cheesy pasta dish that brings warmth and comfort, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb macaroni The star of the dish, providing the perfect base.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter Adds buttery richness.
  • 6 tbsp all-purpose flour Used for the roux.
  • 1/4 tsp dry mustard Adds subtle flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper Provides warmth.
  • 4 cups whole milk Keeps everything smooth and decadent.
  • 8 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese Creates the gooey, cheesy sauce.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large pot, cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, dry mustard, and black pepper, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until everything is combined and bubbling.
  4. Slowly pour in the whole milk while continuously whisking. Cook for about 10 minutes until the mixture is smooth and starts to bubble, stirring to avoid lumps.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and gradually stir in 4 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Stir in the cooked macaroni until every piece is well coated.
  7. Pour half of the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheese on top, followed by the remaining mac and cheese, finishing with the last 2 cups of cheese.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
  9. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a gourmet touch, consider adding breadcrumbs to the top before baking or mixing in extras like cooked bacon or sautéed spinach. Experiment with different cheeses for a new flavor profile.