Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender elbow macaroni with a rich, cheesy sauce and a crispy panko topping. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve a dish that’s guaranteed to please. Let’s dive into the step-by-step recipe to create this classic dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup milk, divided
- 4 tbsp melted butter
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Seasoned panko crumbs for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
- Boil Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- Melt Velveeta:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the Velveeta cheese and 1/2 cup of milk. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
- Add Seasonings:
- Add the melted butter, beaten eggs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce
- Mix Pasta and Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Stir until the macaroni is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Baking Dish:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Layer Mac and Cheese:
- Spread half of the macaroni mixture in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top.
- Add Second Layer:
- Add the remaining macaroni mixture on top of the cheese layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the top.
Step 5: Add Topping and Bake
- Prepare Panko Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the seasoned panko crumbs with the remaining 1/2 cup of milk. Stir to moisten the crumbs.
- Sprinkle Topping:
- Evenly sprinkle the panko topping over the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the panko topping is golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
- Cool Slightly:
- Allow the macaroni and cheese to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Cheese: Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Gruyere, Fontina, or Gouda can add a unique flavor.
- Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to your taste. A pinch of cayenne pepper or mustard powder can add a nice kick.
- Panko Topping: For extra flavor, toast the panko crumbs in a bit of butter before adding to the casserole.
Variations
Spicy Mac and Cheese
- Add Heat:
- Add diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
Bacon Mac and Cheese
- Add Bacon:
- Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon into the macaroni mixture before baking.
Vegetarian Mac and Cheese
- Vegetable Add-ins:
- Add cooked vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, or peas for a nutritious twist.
Serving Suggestions
With a Side Salad
- Salad:
- Serve with a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the macaroni and cheese.
With Garlic Bread
- Bread:
- Pair with warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette for a complete meal.
With Roasted Vegetables
- Vegetables:
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Q: What if I don’t have Velveeta cheese? A: You can substitute Velveeta with a combination of shredded cheddar and American cheese. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Q: Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen? A: Yes, fresh broccoli can be used. Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for a few minutes until tender, then drain and add to the casserole.
Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich cheese sauce, tender macaroni, and crispy panko topping, this casserole is sure to be a family favorite. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe with your loved ones!
