Classic Oven-Baked Cheddar Macaroni

Looking for a comfort food dish that will satisfy your cravings? This Classic Oven-Baked Cheddar Macaroni is the perfect recipe to try! Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so delicious, this dish is sure to become a family favorite in no time.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• 1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
• 2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
• 3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
• 4. Stir in flour until well combined, then gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
• 5. Cook and stir until mixture thickens, then remove from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of cheddar cheese until melted.
• 6. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well.
• 7. Pour mixture into a greased baking dish and top with remaining cheddar cheese.
• 8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
• 9. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

– Calories: 380

– Total Fat: 18g

– Cholesterol: 50mg

– Sodium: 450mg

– Total Carbohydrates: 33g

– Protein: 19g

Popular questions:

• Q: Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste preferences. Gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack would work well.

• Q: Can I substitute regular milk with almond milk?

A: Yes, you can use almond milk as a substitute. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to maintain the savory flavor of the dish.

• Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?

A: You can use gluten-free elbow macaroni and a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish gluten-free.

Helpful tips:

• 1. Add a dash of paprika or cayenne pepper for a hint of spice.
• 2. Mix in cooked bacon or crispy breadcrumbs for added texture.
• 3. Top with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Expert Secrets:

• 1. Pre-shred your cheese for quicker melting and a smoother sauce.
• 2. Don’t overcook the pasta to prevent mushy macaroni in the final dish.