Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe


Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe



30 min
2-3 People
15 min




Introduction:

 

Join me on a journey back to the comforting flavors of childhood, where every forkful of macaroni and cheese was a warm hug for the soul. As a Chef, I've had my fair share of culinary adventures, but there's something special about the simplicity and nostalgia of a classic mac and cheese. Let me share with you a glimpse into my culinary journey and how this timeless dish has been a constant source of joy and inspiration throughout my life.

 

 

 

Recipe of Baked Creamy Pasta with Vegetables

 

Ingredients:

 

For Pasta Boiling:

  • Water - as needed
  • Salt - 10 g
  • Olive oil - 20 ml
  • Elbow pasta - 500 g

For White Sauce:

  • Milk - 300 ml
  • Butter - 30 g
  • Flour - 30 g
  • Salt - to taste

For Cream Sauce:

  • Olive oil - 10 ml
  • Onion, chopped - 30 g
  • Garlic, chopped - 15 g
  • Salt - 2 g
  • Crushed black pepper - 2 g
  • Thyme - 2 g
  • Cream - 100 ml
  • Boiled diced carrots - 50 g
  • Corn - 50 g

For Finishing:

  • Grated mozzarella cheese - 75 g
  • Basil leaves - 2 sprigs

 

 

Method:

 

For Pasta Boiling:

  1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
  2. Add salt, olive oil, and elbow pasta to the boiling water.
  3. Boil the pasta for 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
  4. Drain the pasta and set aside.

For White Sauce:

  1. In a saucepan, heat milk until warm and pour it into a bowl.
  2. In the same saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  3. Add flour to the melted butter and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns golden brown.
  4. Gradually pour warm milk into the flour mixture, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
  5. Cook the sauce until it thickens to the desired consistency.
  6. Season the white sauce with salt and a little more butter, if desired. Set aside for 15 minutes.

For Cream Sauce:

  1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
  3. Add chopped garlic and continue sautéing until fragrant.
  4. Season with salt, crushed black pepper, and thyme.
  5. Pour in the cream and cook for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add boiled diced carrots and corn, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

For Finishing:

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. In the saucepan with the cream sauce, add grated mozzarella cheese and stir until melted.
  3. Pour in the prepared white sauce and mix well.
  4. Add the boiled pasta to the sauce mixture and stir until evenly coated.
  5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking tray and sprinkle additional cheese on top.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  7. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
  8. Serve the baked creamy pasta on a plate and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
  9. Enjoy your delicious baked pasta with vegetables!

 

This recipe serves as a delightful and comforting meal that combines creamy sauces, tender pasta, and flavorful vegetables.

 

 

 

About the Recipe:

 

Baked Mac & Cheese is a timeless comfort food classic that combines tender macaroni pasta with a creamy, cheesy sauce, baked to golden perfection. Originating in the United States, this dish has become a beloved staple in households around the world. Its simple yet satisfying flavors evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia, making it a go-to choice for cozy family dinners and comforting weeknight meals.

 

 

Cooking Tips:

 

  1. Perfect Pasta: Cook the macaroni pasta until it's al dente, ensuring it retains a slight bite when cooked to prevent mushiness after baking.
  2. Creamy Sauce: Gradually add the milk to the roux while whisking constantly to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, velvety sauce.
  3. Cheese Selection: Experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor profile of your mac and cheese. Popular choices include cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, and Parmesan.
  4. Baking Time: Keep an eye on your mac and cheese while baking to prevent the top from becoming too browned. Cover with foil if needed during the last few minutes of baking.
  5. Serve Hot: Baked Mac & Cheese is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the cheese is gooey and bubbling hot.

 

 

Pairing Guide:

 

  • Green Salad: Pair your Baked Mac & Cheese with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
  • Garlic Bread: Serve alongside garlic bread or toasted baguette slices for a hearty and satisfying meal.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Add a side of steamed broccoli, carrots, or peas to balance out the richness of the mac and cheese with some healthy greens.

 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Baked Mac & Cheese:

 

  1. Can I use any type of pasta for Baked Mac & Cheese?

    • While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli.

  2. How do I prevent my Baked Mac & Cheese from drying out?

    • Ensure the pasta is well-coated in the cheese sauce before baking and cover with foil while baking to retain moisture.

  3. Can I make Baked Mac & Cheese ahead of time?

    • Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking.

  4. Can I freeze Baked Mac & Cheese?

    • Baked Mac & Cheese can be frozen in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

  5. What can I add to Baked Mac & Cheese for extra flavor?

    • Try adding crispy bacon, diced ham, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions for additional flavor and texture.

  6. Is Baked Mac & Cheese suitable for vegetarians?

    • Yes, Baked Mac & Cheese can be made vegetarian by using vegetarian-friendly cheeses and omitting any meat-based add-ins.

  7. How do I achieve a crispy top on my Baked Mac & Cheese?

    • Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the top of the mac and cheese before baking to create a golden, crispy crust.

  8. Can I make Baked Mac & Cheese gluten-free?

    • Yes, simply substitute gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend in the roux to make a gluten-free version of Baked Mac & Cheese.

  9. What is the best cheese for Baked Mac & Cheese?

    • Sharp cheddar is a popular choice for its bold flavor, but you can also experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, fontina, or Monterey Jack.

  10. How do I reheat leftovers of Baked Mac & Cheese?

    • Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.