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–+ servings

Classic Creamy Homemade Baked Macaroni and Cheese

This easy baked macaroni and cheese recipe creates the perfect homemade comfort food with a creamy cheese sauce and golden, crispy top. A family-friendly dinner that's simple to make and absolutely delicious!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 472
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 1 12 ounce package macaroni
  • ¼ cup butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs optional, for topping
  • 2 tablespoons butter melted (optional, for topping)

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain well.
  3. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt ¼ cup butter. Whisk in flour, salt, and pepper until smooth and bubbling, about 2 minutes.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 5 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in 1½ cups of cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheese on top. For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.
  8. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven until bubbly and lightly browned on top, about 25-30 minutes.
  9. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 472kcalCarbohydrates: 46gProtein: 22gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 66mgSodium: 356mgFiber: 2g
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