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Joanna Gaines Mac and Cheese Recipe

Joanna Gaines Mac and Cheese Recipe

Sara Collins
Joanna Gaines Mac and Cheese Recipe is creamy, rich and full of comfort. This dish is perfect for family dinners. Many people love Joanna Gaines Mac and Cheese Recipe because it tastes homemade and warm.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Wooden Spoon
  • 9x13 baking dish
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter for topping

Instructions
 

Boil the Pasta

  • Fill a large pot with water and add salt. Bring it to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just tender. Do not overcook. Drain and set aside.

Make the Roux

  • Place a saucepan over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt slowly. Stir in the flour. Whisk well for two minutes until smooth and lightly golden.

Add the Milk

  • Slowly pour the milk into the flour mixture. Keep whisking to avoid lumps. Cook for five minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth and creamy.

Add the Cheese

  • Lower the heat. Add cheddar, mozzarella and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts completely. The sauce should look rich and smooth.

Season the Sauce

  • Add salt, black pepper and garlic powder. Stir well to mix the flavors evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. The sauce should be flavorful but not too salty.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

  • Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Stir gently until all pasta is coated well. Make sure every piece is covered with creamy cheese sauce.

Prepare for Baking

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 baking dish lightly with butter. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the baking dish evenly.

Add the Topping

  • Mix bread crumbs with melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top. This will give a golden and crispy crust.

Bake Until Golden

  • Place the dish in the oven. Bake for about 20 minutes. The top should turn golden brown. Let it rest for five minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the pasta before baking.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
  • Stir the milk slowly to avoid lumps.
  • Taste the sauce before baking.
  • Let the dish rest before serving.
Keyword Joanna Gaines Mac and Cheese Recipe