Baked Macaroni & Cheese – Five Star Recipe

Prepare your taste buds for a journey into the world of ultimate comfort food with our Five-Star Baked Macaroni & Cheese recipe. This beloved classic is elevated to gourmet status while retaining its soul-warming essence. In this extensive blog post, we will not only share the recipe but also explore the origins and history of this iconic dish, offering insights that deepen your appreciation.

Baked Macaroni & Cheese is a dish that transcends generations, bringing together the creamy richness of a cheese sauce and the nostalgic comfort of perfectly cooked macaroni. With a crispy golden crust on top, it’s a timeless favorite that satisfies the young and young at heart.

Ingredients

For the Macaroni & Cheese:

1. 12 oz elbow macaroni: Cooked to al dente perfection.
2. 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Provides the bold cheese flavor.
3. 2 cups whole milk: Ensures a creamy and luscious cheese sauce.
4. 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness to the cheese sauce.
5. 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Used for thickening the sauce.
6. 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors in every bite.
7. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Complements the cheesy goodness.
8. 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle hint of smokiness.
9. 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard: Boosts the cheese sauce’s depth.
10. 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Elevates the overall flavor profile.

For the Topping:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Creates a crispy, golden topping.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Ensures the breadcrumbs are nicely browned.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to cook, stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
4. Reduce heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, paprika, ground mustard, and garlic powder. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 3: Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and the cheese sauce, ensuring the macaroni is well coated.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

1. In a separate bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter until they are evenly coated.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
2. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the Baked Macaroni & Cheese rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Serve it hot and revel in the creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting flavors.

Cook’s Notes 

• Customize your Baked Macaroni & Cheese by adding ingredients like crispy bacon, sautéed onions, or diced tomatoes for extra layers of flavor.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations to find your perfect blend of flavors, such as a mix of sharp cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan.

Variations

Lobster Macaroni & Cheese

For a luxurious twist on the classic, consider adding chunks of cooked lobster meat to your mac and cheese. The sweet, tender lobster pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce.

Gluten-Free Baked Macaroni & Cheese

To accommodate a gluten-free diet, use gluten-free elbow macaroni and replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

Baked Macaroni & Cheese, often hailed as the ultimate comfort food, has found its way into our hearts and onto our tables for decades. With its luscious, creamy cheese sauce and the perfect balance of spices, this dish never ceases to amaze. Whether enjoyed as a stand-alone meal or paired with a side salad, it’s a timeless classic that delights all ages. Our five-star version brings gourmet elements to this beloved dish while retaining its soul-soothing essence. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a comforting treat, whip up a batch of our Baked Macaroni & Cheese. From the golden