Recipes By Mitch |

Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese – Comfort Food Made Easy

There is nothing quite like a warm, creamy dish of homemade baked mac and cheese. It is one of those classic comfort foods that is simple to make, budget-friendly, and always a family favorite. If you are new to cooking, this recipe is a great way to build confidence because it uses basic ingredients and easy techniques that deliver delicious results.

Mitch's MAC & CHEESE

Ingredients:

For the pasta:

·      1 lb. cavatappi preferred(can use elbow macaroni)

·      2 tbsp. olive oil

For the Cheese Sauce:

·      6 tblsp. (1 stick)

·      6 tblsp. all-purpose flour

·      2 cups 2% milk

·      1 cup whole cream

·      8 oz sharp white cheddar, freshly grated

·      6 oz freshly grated medium sharp yellow cheddar

·      4 oz additional grated gated yellow cheddar for topping

Topping:

·      1 cup Panko bread crumbs (plain bread crumbs work well too)

·      2-3 tbsp. olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions:

 1.     Make the Roux: Melt the butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes until it forms a smooth, slightly nutty-smelling paste (do not let it brown).

2.     Build the Béchamel: Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 5-8 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

3.     Season the Sauce: Remove the pot from the heat. Stir a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.

4.     Add the Cheese: Fold in the sharp cheddar, and yellow cheddar, leaving 4 oz of the yellow cheddar for topping Stir continuously until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is perfectly smooth.

5.     Combine & Bake: Fold your cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until every noodle is evenly coated. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with additional cheese, and cover with breadcrumbs, Bake at 350°F (190°C) for 25 minutes until bubbling and golden-brown on top.