Table of Contents
- Why We Love Easy Baked Mac and Cheese
- The Perfect Comfort Food for All Ages
- How Clara Makes It Special
- Creative Twists on a Classic Dish
- Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Dish
Key Takeaways
Easy Baked Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe by Clara of Clara Cooks combines simple ingredients with a straightforward process to create a meal everyone will love.
Why We Love Easy Baked Mac and Cheese
Clara’s Easy Baked Mac and Cheese is everything you want in a comfort food: rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy. The combination of a velvety cheese sauce and perfectly cooked macaroni makes it an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for kids or adults, this dish never fails to impress.
The Perfect Comfort Food for All Ages
This baked mac and cheese recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence. It’s a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, making it a staple for family dinners or potluck parties. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy pasta underneath.
How Clara Makes It Special
Clara of Clara Cooks brings her own touch to this classic recipe. By using a mix of cheeses and adding optional paprika for a slight kick, Clara elevates this traditional dish into something truly unforgettable. Her easy-to-follow instructions ensure that even beginner cooks can achieve perfect results.
Creative Twists on a Classic Dish
Looking to spice things up? You can add cooked bacon, roasted vegetables, or even a dash of hot sauce to customize your mac and cheese. Clara encourages you to get creative and make it your own while staying true to the recipe’s comforting roots.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
To ensure your Easy Baked Mac and Cheese turns out perfectly every time, Clara recommends using freshly grated cheese for the best meltability. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly. For an extra creamy sauce, don’t skip the roux—it’s the secret to that luscious texture.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Dish
Pair your Easy Baked Mac and Cheese with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal. For special occasions, serve it alongside roasted chicken or grilled steak to create a truly memorable feast. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor.
Easy Baked Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream, cooking until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika until the cheese is fully melted.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Transfer the macaroni mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with breadcrumbs if desired, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
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