Homestyle Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a dish that warms the heart and delights the palate. This classic comfort food is the epitome of simple pleasures. Imagine a creamy, cheesy concoction enveloping tender pasta, all topped with a crispy, golden crust. It’s food that effortlessly brings families together around the table, making it a beloved choice for weeknight dinners and festive gatherings alike.
Making this recipe is notably rewarding. Not only does it fill your kitchen with tantalizing aromas, but it also allows you to savor the timeless joy of homemade goodness. There is something special about transforming everyday ingredients into a meal that feels extraordinary. From the moment you melt the butter to the final, glorious bake, the process is both satisfying and enjoyable.
Lastly, let’s consider versatility. This homestyle dish can be tailored to suit your taste. Whether you crave a little spice or prefer to keep it classic, it welcomes fun additions like vegetables or different cheeses. No matter how you spin it, this macaroni and cheese will become a trusted staple in your recipe repertoire.
How to Make Homestyle Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients:
2 cups small (dry) elbow macaroni (or another small pasta)
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) salted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
20 Ritz crackers (or another buttery cracker), crushed
4 slices cooked, crispy bacon, chopped
1 heaping tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
Directions:
Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling, add your macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Preheat your oven to a lovely 400°F. While that heats, prepare a 2 1/2-quart baking dish by spraying it with cooking spray. This will prevent sticking and make serving a breeze.
Next, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s melted, whisk in the flour until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This creates a delightful roux, the foundation of your creamy sauce.
Gradually pour in the milk, then add the cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and some salt and pepper. Continue to whisk this mixture, cooking for about 3 to 5 minutes or until it thickens, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Now, stir in the cooked pasta and the shredded cheddar cheese, making sure everything is well combined and coated in that delicious sauce.
Spoon the cheesy macaroni into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers, chopped bacon, and parsley. Sprinkle this topping generously over the macaroni.
Bake your dish in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until the top is a beautiful golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and inviting.
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This will allow the flavors to settle, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Serve it warm, sink into its cheesy goodness, and revel in the joyful flavors of homestyle baked macaroni and cheese!
How to Serve Homestyle Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Serving Homestyle Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a delight in itself. This dish is perfect for family-style meals, where everyone can help themselves to a generous scoop. Pair it with a simple side salad for a touch of freshness that balances the richness of the cheese.
Consider garnishing each serving with a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or a dash of paprika for a touch of color and added flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a side of crusty bread to soak up any extra cheese sauce left on the plate. This makes for a visually appealing and satisfying meal.
Don’t forget about leftovers! This dish rewarms beautifully, making it an excellent choice for lunch the next day. Simply heat it in the microwave or in the oven, and you’ll enjoy the comforting flavors once again.
Additional Tips:
For a zestier version, try adding some diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
To make it a full meal, consider stirring in some cooked chicken or steamed broccoli before baking.
Experiment with different types of cheeses for varied flavors; gouda or mozzarella can give a unique twist to the classic.
Nutrition Facts:
The nutrition facts will vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used, but a typical serving may contain approximately:
Calories: 350
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fat: 20g
FAQ Section
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
How long can I store the leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying it out.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! It freezes well. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container, and it should stay good for about 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Homestyle Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Indulging in a dish of Homestyle Baked Macaroni and Cheese is like wrapping yourself in a warm, comforting blanket. Its blend of creamy cheese, perfectly cooked pasta, and a satisfying crunch on top is simply irresistible. Try this recipe, and let the cheesy goodness create smiles at your table
Print Homestyle Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
2 cups small (dry) elbow macaroni (or another small pasta)
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) salted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
20 Ritz crackers (or another buttery cracker), crushed
4 slices cooked, crispy bacon, chopped
1 heaping tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling, add your macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Preheat your oven to a lovely 400°F. While that heats, prepare a 2 1/2-quart baking dish by spraying it with cooking spray. This will prevent sticking and make serving a breeze.
Next, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s melted, whisk in the flour until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This creates a delightful roux, the foundation of your creamy sauce.
Gradually pour in the milk, then add the cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and some salt and pepper. Continue to whisk this mixture, cooking for about 3 to 5 minutes or until it thickens, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Now, stir in the cooked pasta and the shredded cheddar cheese, making sure everything is well combined and coated in that delicious sauce.
Spoon the cheesy macaroni into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers, chopped bacon, and parsley. Sprinkle this topping generously over the macaroni.
Bake your dish in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until the top is a beautiful golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and inviting.
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This will allow the flavors to settle, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Serve it warm, sink into its cheesy goodness, and revel in the joyful flavors of homestyle baked macaroni and cheese!
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