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Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

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A cozy, nostalgic dish featuring creamy cheddar and mozzarella baked to perfection with a crunchy topping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • Water for boiling
  • Salt for pasta water
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil, seasoning generously with salt. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (around 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to eliminate raw taste.
  3. Add the milk and cream: Gradually pour in whole milk and heavy cream while whisking until the mixture thickens (around 3-5 minutes).
  4. Season it up: Stir in garlic powder, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings.
  5. Cheese, please: Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted.
  6. Combine the pasta and cheese sauce: Pour cooked pasta into the cheese sauce and mix well.
  7. Assemble for baking: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mac and cheese to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with panko breadcrumbs and drizzle with melted butter.
  8. Bake it: Place in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
  9. Cool and serve: Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For presentation, serve in rustic bowls or on a platter. Pair with a salad or vegetables for balance.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni and cheese, baked mac and cheese, comfort food

Find it online: https://sweetladle.com/creamy-baked-macaroni-and-cheese-30-min-weeknight-comfort/