Introduction
Craving comfort food that’s both satisfying and incredibly easy to make? Look no further than this recipe for baked macaroni pie! This dish elevates classic mac and cheese with a perfectly cheesy top and a creamy, flavorful filling. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit. We’ll guide you through each step, ensuring a delicious, foolproof outcome.
Main Sections
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Success
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step towards macaroni pie perfection. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but adds a lovely warmth)
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided (sharp cheddar provides the best flavor!)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for that perfect cheesy pull)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for the breadcrumbs)
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own cheesy masterpiece:
- Cook the macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
- Thicken the sauce: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Add the seasonings and cheese: Remove from heat and stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Add 3 cups of the cheddar cheese and the mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine macaroni and cheese sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and melted butter.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and the breadcrumb mixture over the top.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool slightly: Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Macaroni Pie
- Don’t overcook the macaroni: Al dente pasta will hold its shape better in the baked pie.
- Use high-quality cheese: The better the cheese, the better the flavor!
- Customize your cheese blend: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
- Add some spice: A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can add a little kick.
- Make it ahead of time: Assemble the macaroni pie and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few minutes to the baking time.
- Mix-ins: Consider adding cooked bacon, ham, or vegetables like broccoli or peas for a heartier meal.
Conclusion
This easy baked macaroni pie recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its creamy, cheesy interior and crispy topping, it’s the ultimate comfort food. The best part? It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for a special occasion. Gather your ingredients, follow our easy steps, and get ready to enjoy a delicious, homemade macaroni pie!
