Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our All Day Macaroni and Cheese! This creamy, cheesy delight will have your taste buds dancing and your heart singing. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. So, grab your apron and prepare to embark on a cheesy adventure that will transform your kitchen into a haven of warmth and flavor!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just shy of al dente, about 6-7 minutes. The pasta should still have a slight firmness as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse the pasta to preserve the starch that will help the sauce adhere.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, milk, and melted butter. Stir thoroughly to create a creamy base.
- Add the partially cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture, gently folding to ensure every pasta piece is well coated.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste. The cheese will add some saltiness, so be conservative with additional salt.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a large, greased baking dish. Spread evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly across the top of the macaroni and cheese, creating a golden, crispy topping.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning and retain moisture.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, removing the foil during the last 15 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to become golden and crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let the macaroni and cheese rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the sauce to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh ground black pepper or chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Be sure to cook the elbow macaroni just shy of al dente. This ensures that the pasta retains a slight firmness and doesn't become mushy during baking.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar cheese is classic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for added flavor and creaminess.
- Breadcrumb Topping: For an extra crispy topping, consider mixing the breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter and some grated parmesan cheese before sprinkling them on top.
- Resting Time: Allow the macaroni and cheese to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
- Seasoning: Taste your cheese mixture before baking. The saltiness of the cheese can vary, so adjust the salt and pepper to suit your preference.
- Add Some Veggies: For a nutritious twist, consider adding steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach to the macaroni mixture before baking.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or use the microwave for a quick snack.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 90mg
