When it comes to comfort food Baked Macaroni and Cheese is one of the first that comes to my mind. As a child it was one of my most beloved meals and as an adult…it’s up there right behind homemade meatloaf and mashed potatoes. Yes, I’m all about those endearing comfort foods from my childhood.
I like seasoned dried bread crumbs sprinkled on the top. My husband is a totally different character and likes his baked mac and cheese served with stewed tomatoes on the top. My grandchildren…they’re all about squirting ketchup onto their’s.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
1 package (1 lb. box) San Giorgio Elbows, uncooked
1/2 cup butter or margarine
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
salt and ground black pepper to taste
5 cups of milk (I use whole milk)
4 cups (16 oz.) shredded cheddar cheese
seasoned dried bread crumbs
Cook pasta according to package directions. Heat oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Blend in the all-purpose flour, salt and ground black pepper; gradually stir in the milk. Cook constantly until the sauce begins to thicken and mixture begins to boil. Slowly add in the cheese, stir until all of the cheese has melted. (I found it best to use a nonstick silicone spatula for stirring the cheese). In a 3 quart casserole dish, stir together the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce. Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Remove from oven and sprinkle seasoned bread crumbs on top. Place back into the oven for additional 5 minutes. Remove and let sit for 5 minutes on the stove-top before serving.
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I enjoy macaroni and cheese but I have not baked it . This sounds like a delicious way to make it and I shall prepare this way soon.
I have never heard of stewed tomatoes on mac and cheese…. but I am from the South. Most of us don’t put any topping on it. Getting part of the top that has the browned cheese is our prize. To each his own.
I am a fan of mac and cheese and it is a comfort food for me. I am with you in having the bread crumbs on top. No stewed tomatoes for me.
I am going to try your recipe.. Sounds delicious!! I usually make mine with the Velveeta cheese. But using the cheddar shredded cheese sounds really good. Yummy can’t wait to make this..
I love mac and cheese, whether it’s baked or just made in the kettle on the stove top. To me, it’s the classic comfort food.
I am strange. I do not like mac and cheese. In any form, with any cheeses.
I have never had or made macaroni and cheese this way before and I think I am missing out. This recipe sounds so amazing and I got hungry just reading it. I am so going to make this one and I think I have all of the ingredients already. Thank you for sharing this one love your recipes.