Dive into the ultimate comfort food with our Heavenly Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese. This dish is a creamy, cheesy delight, featuring a golden, crispy top layer and a smooth, velvety cheese sauce enveloping perfectly cooked macaroni. It's a heartwarming dish that's perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you need a little cheesy goodness in your life.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Number of Servings and Serving size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: Approximately 200g (7 oz) per serving
Ingredients
- 500g (1.1 lb) elbow macaroni
- 60g (2.1 oz) unsalted butter
- 60g (2.1 oz) all-purpose flour
- 500ml (17 fl oz) whole milk
- 250ml (8.5 fl oz) heavy cream
- 200g (7 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 150g (5.3 oz) Gruyère cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 100g (3.5 oz) breadcrumbs
Method of Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Cook the macaroni until al dente according to package directions, then drain.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to make a roux.
- Whisk in the milk and heavy cream gradually, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
- Take the pan off the heat. Melt the cheddar and Gruyère cheeses together in a mixing bowl. Mix in the mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the cheese sauce and the cooked macaroni in a mixing bowl. Place in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and bubbling on top.
Culinary Success Tips
- For extra flavor, mix a pinch of paprika or garlic powder into the breadcrumbs.
- You can add cooked bacon, ham, or vegetables for variety.
FAQs
- Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different combinations.
- Can this dish be made in advance? Yes, assemble it ahead and bake just before serving.
- How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.