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Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

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Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is a comfort food classic, combining a rich, creamy cheese sauce with perfectly cooked pasta, all baked to golden, bubbly perfection. With a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, this dish is the epitome of indulgence and a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • For the mac and cheese:
    • 1 lb elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
    • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
    • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
    • 3 cups whole milk (or 2% milk)
    • 1 cup heavy cream
    • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
    • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the topping:
    1. 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
    2. 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
    3. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or use a cast-iron skillet for extra flavor.

  1. Prepare the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, about 7-8 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, about 5-7 minutes. Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust as needed.
  3. Assemble the mac and cheese: Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to combine, making sure all the pasta is coated in the sauce. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
  4. Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan. Stir until the breadcrumbs are well coated.
  5. Top and bake: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly. If you prefer a crispier topping, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  6. Serve: Let the mac and cheese cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Bacon Mac and Cheese: Stir in crumbled, cooked bacon to the cheese sauce for extra smoky flavor.
  • Veggie Mac and Cheese: Add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for added flavor and nutrients.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to make this dish gluten-free.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/ultimate-creamy-baked-mac-and-cheese/