When you think of comfort food, there are few dishes as satisfying and universally loved as baked macaroni and cheese. But what if we twist this classic favorite and use spaghetti noodles instead of traditional macaroni? In this culinary journey, we'll explore how to transform a standard into something delightfully different yet equally comforting: Baked Macaroni and Cheese Spaghetti Noodle Delight. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual treat with its golden, bubbly cheese topping and a slight chewiness from the spaghetti.
Ingredients for Spaghetti Noodle Mac & Cheese
Here's what you'll need to prepare this delectable dish:
- 450 grams spaghetti noodles
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 4 cups of whole milk
- 4 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of dry mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika (for that smoky flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup of panko bread crumbs mixed with 2 tablespoons of melted butter (for the topping)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Dish
1. Cooking the Spaghetti
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the spaghetti until it’s al dente, which means it should have a slight bite. Remember, the noodles will cook further in the oven, so you don’t want them overly soft at this stage. Drain the spaghetti and set aside.
2. Preparing the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Gradually add the milk, whisking as you pour to ensure a smooth mixture. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat, and cook until the sauce thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and start adding the cheeses in stages, beginning with the cheddar, followed by mozzarella and then Parmesan. Stir until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the dry mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
🧀 Note: Be sure not to boil the sauce once the cheese has been added, as this can cause it to split or become grainy.
3. Combining Spaghetti and Cheese Sauce
Stir the cooked spaghetti into the cheese sauce, ensuring each noodle is well coated. The mixture should be creamy and indulgent at this point.
4. Baking Preparation
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the cheesy spaghetti mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle the buttered panko bread crumbs over the top for a crunchy finish.
5. Baking
Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
6. Resting and Serving
Allow the dish to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Tips for a Perfect Baked Spaghetti Mac & Cheese
- Use high-quality cheeses for the best flavor.
- Undercook the spaghetti slightly; it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Don’t overmix the noodles with the sauce to avoid breaking them.
- The bread crumb topping adds a textural contrast; feel free to experiment with different crumbs or adding herbs.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is rich and fulfilling on its own, but you can elevate your meal with:
- A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower to add some color and nutrition.
- For meat lovers, pair it with crispy bacon or grilled chicken strips.
In this unique spin on a beloved classic, the use of spaghetti noodles adds a new dimension to the well-known macaroni and cheese. The dish retains the comforting, cheesy flavor but introduces a delightful chewiness from the spaghetti, making it a perfect dish for those looking to try something slightly different yet satisfying. Remember to let it rest before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to set. Whether served as a main dish or as part of a larger spread, this Baked Macaroni and Cheese Spaghetti Noodle Delight is sure to bring smiles and warmth to your table.
Can I use different types of pasta instead of spaghetti?
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Yes, you can use various pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even macaroni for a more traditional look and feel. The key is to cook them al dente.
How can I make this dish if I am lactose intolerant?
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Use dairy-free alternatives for cheese and milk. Brands like Daiya or Violife offer good cheese substitutes, and almond or oat milk can work in place of cow’s milk.
What can I do to prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
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Avoid overheating the sauce after adding cheese; keep it on low heat and add the cheese gradually, stirring constantly. If it does start to split, a quick whiz with an immersion blender can fix it.
