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Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

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4.8 from 86 reviews

This classic Southern Mac and Cheese recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with layers of rich Cheddar cheese, baked to a creamy, bubbly perfection. Enhanced with a smooth custard of milk, eggs, and mustard, this comforting casserole is perfect as a hearty side dish or a satisfying main course enjoyed by the whole family.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni

Cheese

  • 4 pounds Cheddar cheese, sliced

Custard Mixture

  • 1 ½ cups milk
  • 5 eggs, or more to taste
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • Ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients needed for the dish. Preheat your oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C) to prepare for baking the macaroni and cheese.
  2. Cook Macaroni: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes until the pasta is tender but still firm to the bite (al dente). Drain well.
  3. Layer Macaroni and Cheese: In a 5-quart baking dish, create layers by starting with a portion of the cooked macaroni, followed by a layer of sliced Cheddar cheese. Repeat this layering process, finishing with a top layer of Cheddar cheese for a cheesy crust.
  4. Prepare and Pour Custard Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat together the milk, eggs, and yellow mustard until well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered macaroni and cheese, making sure it seeps through to all areas for even custard coverage.
  5. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Bake until the cheese is fully melted and the edges start to turn crispy but not burnt.
  6. Season and Serve: Remove from the oven and season with ground black pepper to taste. Let it sit briefly before serving to allow the custard to set and flavors to meld. Enjoy warm!

Notes

  • For a sharper flavor, use aged Cheddar cheese or a blend of Cheddars.
  • The baking time can be adjusted slightly depending on your oven; watch closely towards the end to avoid over-browning.
  • You can add a breadcrumb topping before baking for added crunch.
  • Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to make serving easier.
  • This recipe serves a large crowd as a side dish or fewer people as a hearty main.

Find it online: https://ameliameals.com/creamy-baked-mac-and-cheese-recipe/