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Ultimate Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

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A rich and creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipe that is a perfect comfort food for any occasion.

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
  • 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 (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour, whisking continuously for about 1 minute until it forms a paste.
  3. Add the Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream. Keep whisking as you bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken.
  4. Season the Sauce: Stir in garlic powder, dry mustard, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Add the Cheese: Lower the heat and mix in the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, a handful at a time. Stir until melted.
  6. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently.
  7. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  8. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and smoked paprika. Sprinkle over the pasta.
  9. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the baking dish inside for about 25-30 minutes.
  10. Let it Rest: Once out of the oven, allow it to rest for about 5 minutes.

Notes

For a spicy twist, stir in some buffalo sauce before baking or drizzle truffle oil on top for an indulgent version.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni, cheese, comfort food, baked, recipe

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