How to Make Bechamel Mac and Cheese

Bechamel Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food dish that combines creamy, cheesy sauce with tender macaroni noodles. This recipe takes the traditional mac and cheese up a notch by using a homemade bechamel sauce as the base. Bechamel sauce, also known as white sauce, is made from butter, flour, and milk, and adds a rich and velvety texture to the dish. With the addition of sharp cheddar cheese, this mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing dish for a potluck, this Bechamel Mac and Cheese is sure to impress.

Ingredients for Bechamel Mac and Cheese:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

How to Make Bechamel Mac and Cheese:

1. Cook the Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Bechamel Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 2 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and golden brown.
3. Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
4. Add the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
5. Combine the Sauce and Macaroni: Add the cooked macaroni to the saucepan with the cheese sauce and stir until the macaroni is evenly coated.
6. Bake the Mac and Cheese: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top, if using.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the mac and cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. Serve hot and enjoy!

About the Main Ingredients:

• Elbow Macaroni: Elbow macaroni is the classic pasta shape used in mac and cheese. Its small size and tubular shape make it perfect for holding onto the creamy cheese sauce.
• Butter and Flour: These ingredients are used to make a roux, which thickens the sauce. The roux adds richness and body to the sauce.
• Whole Milk: Whole milk is used to make the sauce creamy and rich. The higher fat content of whole milk adds to the decadence of the dish.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds a bold and tangy flavor to the mac and cheese. It melts beautifully into the sauce, creating a creamy and cheesy texture.
• Salt, Pepper, and Nutmeg: These seasonings add depth and flavor to the dish. The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that complements the richness of the cheese sauce.
• Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs are optional but add a crunchy texture to the top of the mac and cheese. They can be omitted for a smoother texture.

8. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley, if desired. Serve the Bechamel Mac and Cheese as a comforting main dish or as a side dish alongside your favorite protein. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Tips for Making Bechamel Mac and Cheese:

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the cheese sauce.
• Mix in cooked bacon or ham for a hearty twist.
• Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Monterey Jack, for a unique flavor profile.
• Experiment with different pasta shapes for a fun twist on this classic dish.

Bechamel Mac and Cheese is a versatile and delicious dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With its creamy sauce and cheesy goodness, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Try making this recipe for your next family dinner or potluck, and watch it disappear!