When you’re looking to feed a large group, nothing beats the classic comfort of mac and cheese. This dish is creamy, cheesy, and downright irresistible. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or big game days, this recipe will surely please even the pickiest eaters.
Imagine a giant, bubbling dish of macaroni coated in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, topped with a golden-brown crust. This mac and cheese isn’t just a side dish; it’s the star of the meal! With this recipe, you’ll have a generous portion that serves 20 hungry mouths.
Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to prepare a comforting meal for a large family, this mac and cheese recipe has got you covered. It’s straightforward to make and can be customized with your favorite cheeses and mix-ins.
Crowd-Pleasing Mac and Cheese
This mac and cheese dish is the ultimate comfort food, designed to please a large gathering.
Its creamy cheese sauce blends sharp cheddar and mozzarella, creating a rich, satisfying flavor profile.
The delightful contrast of the crispy breadcrumb topping complements the smooth pasta, making each bite a
symphony of textures. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s bound to become the highlight of any meal.
Preparation Made Simple
Preparing this mac and cheese is straightforward. Start by cooking elbow macaroni until al dente,
then set it aside. The cheese sauce comes together by melting butter, whisking in flour, and gradually adding milk.
Once the mixture thickens, stir in the combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until it’s perfectly smooth.
This rich cheese sauce is the heart of the dish.
Combining Flavors
After preparing the cheese sauce, combine it with the cooked macaroni. Ensure every piece of pasta
is generously coated, as this is where the flavor truly shines.
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, ready for the finishing touches. A mixture of breadcrumbs and melted butter
is sprinkled on top for that irresistible crunchy layer.
Baking to Perfection
Baking the mac and cheese at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes allows the top to brown beautifully while the cheese
bubbles underneath. The enticing aroma fills the kitchen, beckoning everyone to the table.
Letting it cool for a few minutes enhances the flavors and makes serving easier. A sprinkle of parsley can add a touch
of freshness for those who desire it.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or game day celebrations.
Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to complete the meal.
Leftovers, if there are any, can be stored and reheated, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights.
Homemade mac and cheese is always a hit, and this version is sure to leave everyone wanting more.
Nutrition and Portions
With a serving size that feeds around 20, this mac and cheese is not just hearty but provides a balanced
combination of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Each serving contains approximately 400 calories, making it a
satisfying and filling option for any event.
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively celebration, this mac and cheese is designed to bring people together
over a shared love of food.
Crowd-Pleasing Mac and Cheese
This ultimate mac and cheese features a creamy cheese sauce made with a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella, creating a rich flavor that’s both satisfying and indulgent. With a crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s a delightful contrast to the smooth pasta.
The taste is a perfect balance of creamy and cheesy, with just the right amount of seasoning to enhance the flavors without overpowering the dish.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cups milk
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
- Combine: In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well-coated.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the mac and cheese into a large greased baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 20 servings
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 24g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
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