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Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

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A classic comfort food dish that’s rich, cheesy, and perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente (about 1 minute less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.
  3. Make the roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden and bubbling.
  4. Make the cheese sauce: Slowly pour in the milk and cream while whisking. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens slightly, about 4–6 minutes. Stir in garlic powder, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Add the cheese: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
  6. Combine with pasta: Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat all the pasta.
  7. Assemble in baking dish: Pour the cheesy pasta into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
  8. Add breadcrumb topping (optional): Mix panko with melted butter and smoked paprika. Sprinkle over the top of the pasta.
  9. Bake: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden on top. For a crispier topping, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
  10. Cool and serve: Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving for best texture.

Notes

For extra creaminess, add more heavy cream or mix different cheeses. Avoid overcooking the pasta.

Find it online: https://www.cuisiniu.com/creamy-baked-macaroni-and-cheese/