CREAMY BAKED MAC AND CHEESE

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and stir 2 minutes until golden brown.
Slowly whisk in milk until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened and simmering.
Remove from heat. Stir in cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Add macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat.
Pour into prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake 25-30 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Bacon Lovers Mac and Cheese: Crumble cooked bacon over the top before baking.
Veggie Delight Mac and Cheese: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the cheese sauce.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes! Prepare, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake an additional 10-15 minutes when ready to serve.
Q: Can I use different pasta?
A: Experiment with shells, penne, or fusilli. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Enjoy!

This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is a timeless comfort classic, perfect for any occasion. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!