Baked Macaroni and Cheese

 

I would like to say, who doesn't love a creamy, cheesy and comforting dish of macaroni and cheese. However, I know some people who do not. Thankfully, the people in my household are the kinds of people that either like, love or really love mac and cheese. So, having this for dinner as either the main dish or a side dish is enjoyed.

Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients:

Macaroni and Cheese

• 16 ounces cavatappi pasta
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all purpose flour
• 4 cups milk
• 24 ounces sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
• black pepper, to taste

Topping

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325º F. Spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package directions and drain well.
3. Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
4. Add in the flour and whisk constantly for 2-3 minutes. Season with black pepper.
5. Slowly whisk in the milk and continue to whisk while heating to a low boil. Whisk until the mixture is thick. Remove from the heat.
6. Pour the hot pasta into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the shredded cheese over top. Pour the thickened cream sauce over the shredded cheese and allow the cheese to melt. 
7. Once the cheese has melted, stir everything together.
8. In a small saucepan, over medium heat, melt the butter.
9. Add in the panko and stir constantly for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Sprinkle over the mac and cheese. Bake for 12-15 minutes.

Enjoy!!!

Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12
Amount Per Serving
Calories: 500
Total Fat		30.7g
Saturated Fat		18.3g
Trans Fat		0g
Polyunsaturated Fat		0g
Monounsaturated Fat		2.5g
Cholesterol		88.3mg
Sodium		407.1mg
Total Carbohydrates		37.8g
Dietary Fiber		1.6g
Sugars		5.4g
Protein		20.3g
Calcium		44.4%
Iron		7%
Potassium		135.9mg
Vitamin A		11.7%
Vitamin C		0.7%
*Nutritional information will vary depending on the brands you use.

*Adapted from The Sun.