Baked Mac & Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this delicious Baked Mac & Cheese recipe. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, this dish is sure to warm your heart and please your taste buds. Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck gathering, or a cozy night in, this classic macaroni and cheese bake will always be a crowd-pleaser.

PREP 10 MINS

COOK 35 MINS

SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS:

• 500g macaroni
• 60g (3 tablespoons) Western Star Original Butter
• ¼ cup plain flour
• 3 cups (750ml) milk, warmed
• 2½ cups (135g) Perfect Italiano™ Perfect Bakes cheese
• 2 tablespoons oregano leaves, chopped
• 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup (60ml) olive oil

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C / 180°C fan-forced. Grease a 2-litre (8-cup capacity) ovenproof dish to prepare it for baking.
2. Cook the macaroni in a large saucepan according to the packet instructions, typically around 12 minutes, or until it becomes tender. Once cooked, refresh the pasta under cold water and drain it well.
3. In a saucepan, melt the Western Star Original Butter over medium heat. Slowly add the plain flour, whisking until the two are well combined. Gradually pour in the warm milk in batches while continuing to stir until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a wooden spoon. Stir in 1½ cups of Perfect Italiano™ Perfect Bakes cheese to add that creamy, cheesy goodness.
4. Add the cooked macaroni and chopped oregano to the cheese sauce, stirring everything together until well combined. Spoon this delightful mixture into the prepared ovenproof dish.
5. Now, let’s add the perfect finishing touch. In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the remaining 1 cup of Perfect Italiano™ Perfect Bakes cheese. Pour in the olive oil and mix everything together using your hands until the crumbs are evenly coated. Scatter this irresistible crumb mix over the pasta in the dish.
6. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping turns a beautiful golden brown, adding that lovely crispiness to the creamy mac and cheese.
7. To complete the meal, serve the Baked Mac & Cheese with a simple salad of your choice, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich and comforting flavors of the dish.

This Baked Mac & Cheese is the epitome of comfort and satisfaction. With its creamy cheese sauce, perfectly cooked macaroni, and irresistibly golden breadcrumb topping, it’s a dish that brings smiles to both young and old alike. Whether served as a hearty weeknight dinner or a delightful addition to a special occasion, this classic recipe never fails to impress.

The harmonious blend of flavors and textures makes this macaroni and cheese bake a timeless favorite, reminding us of the simple joys in life. As you relish each mouthful, you’ll be transported back to fond memories of home-cooked meals and moments of togetherness around the dining table.

So, gather your loved ones, share this heartwarming dish, and create new memories to cherish. The Baked Mac & Cheese, with its comforting essence and delightful taste, is sure to bring a sense of warmth and contentment to any gathering.

Next time you’re in the mood for comfort food or looking to please a crowd, turn to this Baked Mac & Cheese recipe. Its timeless appeal and crowd-pleasing qualities will make it a beloved addition to your repertoire of go-to dishes. Enjoy the simple pleasures of life with this delicious and satisfying classic!