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Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
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Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a timeless comfort food featuring tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a smooth, luscious sharp cheddar cheese sauce, topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this baked macaroni delivers warmth, nostalgia, and indulgent cheesy goodness in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Topping

  • 1 cup bread crumbs (preferably panko)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling the elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain and set aside to keep slightly undercooked, which ensures the pasta finishes perfectly during baking.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour to form a roux. Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer the mixture until it thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until the sauce is velvety and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni. Gently mix to evenly coat each noodle with the luscious cheese sauce, ensuring a creamy texture throughout.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Butter a baking dish and transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into it. Evenly sprinkle the top with bread crumbs for a golden crunchy crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
  5. Rest and Serve: Let the baked macaroni and cheese rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the sauce to thicken for perfect, creamy spoonfuls of cheesy comfort.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for more pronounced cheesy flavor and creaminess.
  • Avoid overcooking pasta; slightly undercooked noodles bake to perfection without becoming mushy.
  • Whisk constantly when adding milk to the roux to avoid lumps and ensure a silky sauce.
  • Butter your baking dish to prevent sticking and add richness around the edges.
  • Grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded for better melting and texture.
  • Use panko bread crumbs for a lighter, crunchier topping that browns beautifully.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked macaroni and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta, Momma's recipe

Find it online: https://dishesbylina.com/mommas-creamy-baked-macaroni-and-cheese/