Creamy Cheddar Baked Macaroni
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipe. Rooted in the classic flavors of a beloved Mueller's recipe, this dish elevates the humble macaroni with a luscious cheese sauce and a crispy topping. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this macaroni and cheese is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Each bite is rich and savory, delivering the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Don't let the time involved discourage you; the resulting dish is well worth every minute spent in the kitchen!
6
Servings
250
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cornstarch
2 (tablespoons)
Salt
1 (teaspoon)
Dry Mustard
1/2 (teaspoon (optional))
Pepper
1/4 (teaspoon)
Milk
2 1/2 (cups (skim recommended))
Margarine
2 (tablespoons)
Shredded Cheddar Cheese
8 (ounces (divided, about 2 cups))
Elbow Macaroni
8 (ounces, cooked for 6 minutes and drained (about 3/4 cup))
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cornstarch, salt, dry mustard (if using), and pepper until well combined.
2
Gradually pour in the milk, stirring continuously to create a smooth mixture.
3
Add the margarine to the saucepan, and cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Be vigilant, as it can burn easily; continue stirring for one full minute after boiling.
4
Once boiled, remove the saucepan from heat and reserve 1/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese for topping.
5
Stir in the remaining shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth.
6
Fold in the cooked elbow macaroni, ensuring each piece is coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
7
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
8
Sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top of the macaroni.
9
Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 25 minutes uncovered, or until the dish is hot and bubbly with a golden crust.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
30g
Carbs
10g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Cheddar Baked Macaroni?
This is a rich and savory comfort food dish featuring a luscious cheese sauce and a crispy golden topping, inspired by a classic Mueller's recipe.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What are the nutritional facts for one serving?
Each serving contains 250 calories, 10g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 10g of protein.
What type of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese, which is approximately 2 cups.
What type of pasta should I use?
You should use 8 ounces of elbow macaroni.
How should the elbow macaroni be prepared?
The macaroni should be cooked for 6 minutes and then drained before being added to the sauce.
What oven temperature is required?
The oven should be preheated to 375%F (190%C).
How long does the dish bake for?
The macaroni and cheese should bake for 25 minutes.
Do I need to cover the casserole while it bakes?
No, the dish should be baked uncovered until it is hot and bubbly.
What size casserole dish is needed?
A greased 2-quart casserole dish is required.
What kind of milk is recommended?
Skim milk is recommended for this recipe.
Is dry mustard required for this recipe?
No, the 1/2 teaspoon of dry mustard is optional.
How do I make the cheese sauce base?
Whisk together cornstarch, salt, dry mustard, and pepper in a saucepan, then gradually stir in milk and margarine.
How long should I boil the milk and cornstarch mixture?
Once it comes to a boil, you must continue stirring it constantly for one full minute.
How much cheese should I save for the topping?
Reserve 1/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese to sprinkle over the top before baking.
When do I add the cheese to the sauce?
Stir in the cheese after removing the saucepan from the heat, once the milk mixture has boiled and thickened.
What should I do if the sauce starts to burn?
Be vigilant and stir constantly while cooking over medium-high heat to prevent burning.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 total ingredients: cornstarch, salt, dry mustard, pepper, milk, margarine, cheddar cheese, and elbow macaroni.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe and a great family meal.
What is the primary thickening agent for the sauce?
Cornstarch is used as the thickening agent for the creamy cheese sauce.
Can this dish be served at family gatherings?
Yes, it is specifically described as being perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
How much margarine is needed?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of margarine.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
It has a luscious, creamy cheese sauce with a crispy, golden crust on top.
What are some tags for this recipe?
Common tags include macaroni and cheese, baked, comfort food, and casserole.
How much milk is used in the sauce?
You will need 2 1/2 cups of milk.
What should I do before putting the mixture in the casserole dish?
Fold the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce until every piece is evenly coated.
How much salt is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of salt.
How much pepper is added to the sauce?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
What is the first step in the cooking process?
The first step is whisking together the dry ingredients: cornstarch, salt, mustard, and pepper in a medium saucepan.
Is the macaroni fully cooked before baking?
The macaroni is partially cooked for 6 minutes before being folded into the sauce and baked.