Baked Mac and Cheese with Bread Crumbs Recipe New Jersey

Baked Mac and Cheese with Bread Crumbs Recipe

Baked Mac and Cheese with Bread Crumbs Recipe New Jersey

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Instructions
4. Variations
5. Tips
6. Conclusion

Introduction

Baked Mac and Cheese with Bread Crumbs Recipe New Jersey

Baked mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe adds a crispy and savory twist by including bread crumbs as a topping. It's the perfect dish for a cozy night in or for a special occasion. In this article, we will go through the ingredients, instructions, and variations for making this delicious baked mac and cheese with bread crumbs recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup bread crumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and continue to cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens.
5. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
7. Sprinkle the bread crumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread crumbs are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Variations

• Add some diced bacon or cooked ground beef for a meaty twist.
• Mix in some chopped vegetables, such as broccoli or spinach, for added nutrition.
Try different types of cheese, such as gouda or mozzarella, for a different flavor.

Add some spices, such as garlic powder or paprika, for an extra kick of flavor.

Top with crushed crackers or panko bread crumbs for a different texture.

Tips

• Make sure to cook the macaroni al dente, so it doesn't become mushy when baked.
• Use a good quality cheese for the best flavor.
• Add the milk slowly to prevent lumps from forming in the sauce.
• You can make the sauce and cook the macaroni ahead of time and assemble the dish later.

Conclusion

This baked mac and cheese with bread crumbs recipe is a classic comfort food that is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The addition of bread crumbs gives it a crispy and savory twist. The recipe is versatile and can be customized to your liking by adding different meats, vegetables, or spices. With these tips