Baked Mac and Cheese
User Reviews
4.9
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
30 mins
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Total Time
45 mins
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Servings
5 - 6 servings
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Baked Mac and Cheese
Description
This Baked Mac and Cheese recipe starts with elbow pasta cooked until tender. Meanwhile, a roux is made with butter, flour, paprika, and onion powder, creating a lightly spiced base. Evaporated milk is slowly whisked in and cooked until it thickens slightly before stirring in sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, forming a smooth and rich sauce.
The cheese sauce coats the pasta evenly, which is then divided into individual ramekins and topped with more cheddar cheese. Baking causes the top layer to form a golden crust while the interior remains creamy and soft. The final dish is garnished with chopped fresh chives to add a subtle oniony freshness.
Portioning into ramekins allows convenient individual servings, while the use of evaporated milk gives a smooth texture that holds up well to baking without breaking. This method supports a creamy and comforting mac and cheese with a balanced flavor.
Substituting milk is not advised here as it affects sauce consistency during baking.If ramekins or ovenproof bowls are unavailable, a 2-quart baking dish can be used instead.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow pasta
- 3 tablespoons butter unsalted
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 (12-ounce) cans evaporated milk
- 12 ounces cheddar cheese about 3 cups, divided, shredded, extra-sharp
- ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated
- salt to taste, Kosher salt and freshly ground
- black pepper to taste, Kosher salt and freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons chives chopped fresh
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions; drain well.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium high heat. Whisk in flour, paprika and onion powder until lightly browned, about 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in evaporated milk until slightly thickened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Stir in 2 cups cheddar cheese and Parmesan. Stir in pasta; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Divide pasta mixture into 5 (10-ounce) or 6 (8-ounce) ramekins or ovenproof bowls.* Place onto a baking sheet; sprinkle with remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese.
- Place into oven and bake until golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chives, if desired.
Notes
- Substituting milk is not recommended as the sauce may separate during baking.
- If you lack ramekins or ovenproof bowls, use a 2-quart baking dish as an alternative.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.9
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