Juneteenth Baked Mac and Cheese: An Incredible Comfort Dish

Nothing says comfort quite like a plate of creamy, cheesy goodness, and that’s exactly what you get with Juneteenth baked mac and cheese. Picture this: golden-brown, bubbling cheese on top, with each bite revealing a rich, velvety interior that sings in harmony with the perfectly cooked pasta. perfect pair for mac and cheese It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to wear stretchy pants and settle in for an all-day Netflix marathon.

Juneteenth baked mac and cheese isn’t just about taste; it’s a celebration of heritage and flavor. Growing up, my family would whip up this dish for gatherings, where laughter echoed through the kitchen and everyone eagerly awaited their turn to dive into the cheesy goodness. Whether you’re honoring history or simply feeding a crowd, this recipe promises to bring joy to the table.

Ingredients for Juneteenth baked mac and cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Juneteenth baked mac and cheese:

• Pasta: Use elbow macaroni or cavatappi for that perfect cheesy bite; they hold sauce like a champion.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a robust flavor; feel free to mix in some mild cheddar for creaminess.
• Milk: Whole milk gives you that rich, creamy texture; no one likes dry mac and cheese!
• Butter: A couple of tablespoons will help create a luscious sauce that coats every noodle.
• Flour: All-purpose flour is crucial for thickening your cheese sauce into perfection.

For the Sauce:

• Salt: Just enough to enhance flavors without overpowering them—because nobody wants salty mac!
• Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a hint of spice that complements the creaminess beautifully.
• Garlic Powder: A secret ingredient that brings warmth and depth to your dish without needing a whole clove.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Juneteenth baked mac and cheese

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Juneteenth baked mac and cheese:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). While your oven heats up, grease a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray so that your macaroni doesn’t stick like an awkward date.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain well but don’t rinse; we want that starch to cling!

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Once melted, stir in flour until smooth, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in milk until the mixture thickens slightly—this is where magic happens.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dive face-first into this gooey goodness if you’re not careful—you might lose track of time!

Step 5: Combine Noodles with Sauce

Add your cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring until every noodle is coated like it’s getting ready for an award show.

Step 6: Bake It Up

Pour your cheesy pasta mixture into your greased baking dish. If you feel fancy, sprinkle extra cheddar on top for that golden crust! Bake for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown—trust me; it’ll be worth the wait.

Transfer to plates (or straight from the pan if you’re feeling rebellious) and prepare for cheesy hugs all around! Enjoy every creamy bite while reminiscing about family gatherings or planning your next big bash featuring this delightful dish!

Perfecting Juneteenth baked mac and cheese Cooking Process

Start by boiling your pasta until al dente; this keeps it from becoming mushy in the oven. Meanwhile, whip up a creamy cheese sauce, then combine everything before transferring to a baking dish. Bake until bubbly and golden for perfect results every time.

Add Your Touch to Juneteenth baked mac and cheese

Feel free to swap out cheeses based on preferences—sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or even gouda work wonders. Add cooked bacon bits or sautéed vegetables for an extra flavor punch that will make your taste buds dance.

Storing & Reheating Juneteenth baked mac and cheese

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quick fix.

Sometimes my family fights over who gets the last scoop of this delicious dish; nothing makes my heart sing more than their happy faces as they dig in!

FAQs About Juneteenth baked mac and cheese

What is Juneteenth baked mac and cheese?

Juneteenth baked mac and cheese is a delicious dish that celebrates African American culture and history. This creamy, cheesy casserole is often enjoyed during Juneteenth festivities, which commemorate the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States. delicious cheesy sliders It typically features elbow macaroni mixed with a rich blend of cheeses, milk, and seasonings, then baked until golden and bubbly. Families often add their own twists, such as spices or additional ingredients, to make it special for their gatherings.

How can I make my Juneteenth baked mac and cheese extra creamy?

To achieve an extra creamy Juneteenth baked mac and cheese, consider using a combination of cheeses like sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and mozzarella. Incorporating heavy cream or a béchamel sauce can also enhance the creaminess. Ensure you cook the pasta al dente before mixing it with the cheese sauce, as this prevents it from becoming mushy when baking. Finally, topping your dish with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter creates a delightful crunchy contrast.

What side dishes pair well with Juneteenth baked mac and cheese?

Juneteenth baked mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Some popular options include collard greens, fried chicken, or barbecue ribs. You could also serve it alongside cornbread or a fresh salad to balance the meal. refreshing beverage option Adding these sides not only enhances your dining experience but also embraces traditional Southern cooking associated with Juneteenth celebrations.

Can I make Juneteenth baked mac and cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare Juneteenth baked mac and cheese ahead of time for convenience. Assemble the dish up to the baking point and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge. This allows you to enjoy more time with family and friends during your Juneteenth celebrations without compromising on flavor.

Conclusion for Juneteenth baked mac and cheese

In conclusion, Juneteenth baked mac and cheese represents more than just comfort food; it symbolizes culture and celebration. By creating this dish with creamy cheeses and thoughtful ingredients, you honor traditions while enjoying delicious flavors. Whether served at family gatherings or community events, this recipe brings people together. Embrace this festive spirit by preparing your own version of Juneteenth baked mac and cheese during your next celebration! For more inspiration, check out this Amish country casserole recipe recipe.

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Juneteenth Baked Mac and Cheese

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• Author: Hannah Reed
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Makes 8 servings 1x

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Description

Juneteenth baked mac and cheese is a heartwarming dish that combines creamy, rich flavors with a touch of tradition. This indulgent recipe features perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce, topped with golden, bubbling cheese. Ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish not only satisfies cravings but also celebrates heritage and joy around the dinner table.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish.
2. Boil salted water in a pot, then cook macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour until smooth; gradually add milk to thicken.
4. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in cheddar until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
5. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until well-coated. Pour into the baking dish and top with extra cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 60mg