Baked Macaroni and Cheese
20M
50M
- Makes 8
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in 3 cups of cheddar cheese and all of the Gruyere cheese until melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and fold in the cooked macaroni, ensuring it's well coated with the cheese sauce.
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the macaroni, then top with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let the macaroni and cheese cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious, traditional American Baked Macaroni and Cheese!
Baked Macaroni and Cheese: A Classic American Comfort Food
History
Baked Macaroni and Cheese, a beloved dish in American cuisine, has a rich history that traces back to the colonial period. The earliest known recipe for macaroni and cheese was published in 1769 in “The Experienced English Housekeeper” by Elizabeth Raffald. However, it was Thomas Jefferson who is often credited with popularizing the dish in the United States after he brought a pasta machine from Italy in the late 18th century. Over the years, the recipe evolved from a stovetop preparation to the baked version that many Americans enjoy today. The addition of a crispy, golden topping became a hallmark of this comfort food, making Baked Macaroni and Cheese a staple at family gatherings and holiday feasts.
Taste Profile
The taste profile of Baked Macaroni and Cheese is what makes it a timeless favorite. This dish combines the creamy, rich texture of melted cheese with the tender bite of macaroni pasta. The cheese sauce, often made with a blend of cheddar and other cheeses, provides a deep, savory flavor that is both comforting and indulgent. The golden, crispy topping, typically made from breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth cheese sauce. This combination of textures and flavors creates a harmonious and satisfying eating experience that appeals to both children and adults alike.
Cultural Significance
In American cuisine, Baked Macaroni and Cheese holds a special place as a symbol of comfort and nostalgia. It is a dish that evokes memories of family dinners, potlucks, and holiday celebrations. Often served as a side dish at Thanksgiving and Christmas, it brings people together around the table, fostering a sense of community and warmth. The versatility of Baked Macaroni and Cheese also contributes to its cultural significance; it can be found on the menus of casual diners and upscale restaurants alike, showcasing its widespread appeal. As a quintessential comfort food, it embodies the heart and soul of American culinary tradition, making it a beloved dish across the nation.
