Creamy mini macaroni baked with a rich blend of Italian cheese, topped with golden-brown breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword baked mac n cheese, baked pasta, Broiled macaroni and cheese, Butter and flour roux, Cheese sauce, comfort food, mac and cheese, mac n cheese, Macaroni and cheese recipe, Mini macaroni
Prep Time 15 minutesminutes
Cook Time 25 minutesminutes
Total Time 40 minutesminutes
Servings 2
Ingredients
1cupuncooked mini macaroni
1tbspwhole wheat flour
1/2cupItalian cheese blend
2cupsmilk
1/2tspsalt
1/4tspblack pepper
1/4tsppaprikaoptional, for extra flavor
1/4tspgarlic powderoptional
1/4cupbreadcrumbsfor topping
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the mini macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, roast 1 tbsp of whole wheat flour over low heat.
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk and cook until the sauce thickens.
Add 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder (if using). Mix well.
Reduce heat to low and stir in 1/2 cup shredded cheese blend until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the cooked mini macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir until the macaroni is well coated with the cheese sauce.
Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle 2 tbsp shredded cheese (optional) and 1/4 cup breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
Place the baking dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the top is crispy. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Video
Notes
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.