Great as a main dish or a crowd-pleasing side.
🧀 Baked Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
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1 lb elbow macaroni
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4 tbsp butter
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4 tbsp all-purpose flour
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3 cups milk (warm)
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2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack
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½ cup grated Parmesan
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp paprika (optional)
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½ tsp mustard powder (optional, boosts flavor)
Topping (optional but great):
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1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
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2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Cook macaroni until just al dente; drain.
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In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour; cook 1 minute.
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Slowly whisk in warm milk. Cook until thickened.
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Remove from heat and stir in cheeses, salt, pepper, and seasonings until smooth.
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Combine cheese sauce with macaroni.
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Pour into a greased 9×13 baking dish.
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Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top.
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Bake 30–35 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
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Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Tips for Extra Creamy Mac
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Don’t overbake
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Use freshly shredded cheese (melts better)
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Add 2–3 tbsp cream cheese for richness
Easy Add-Ins
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Cooked bacon
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Diced ham
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Broccoli or peas
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Jalapeños (for a mild kick)
Want a southern-style, slow-cooker, or extra-cheesy church potluck version?