Mac and cheese is the epitome of comfort food, and nothing beats a homemade, creamy baked version. This classic dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving a cozy meal on a rainy day. Here’s how to make a deliciously creamy baked mac and cheese that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
• 3 cups of whole milk
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 cup of breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions 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 continuously for about 1 minute until it forms a smooth paste. Gradually add the milk while continuing to whisk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook the mixture until it thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Cheese:
   Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and smooth. Add salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, stirring until well combined.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is fully coated.
5. Prepare for Baking:
   Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle them evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
6. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Let the baked mac and cheese cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight with your favorite sides!

Tips for the Perfect Mac and Cheese

• Choose Quality Cheese: Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor. A sharp cheddar adds a tangy kick, while mozzarella gives it a gooey texture.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding cooked bacon bits, sautéed onions, or a sprinkle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Creamy baked mac and cheese is a beloved classic that never disappoints. With its rich, velvety sauce and crispy breadcrumb topping, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try and watch it disappear from the table in no time!

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