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Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the elbow macaroni (or whatever pasta shape you’ve chosen) according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook it al dente, as it will cook further in the oven. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

Next, it’s time to make the creamy cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Continue to whisk for about 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This will thicken your sauce.

Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Give the sauce a final stir to combine all the flavors.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the saucepan with the cheese sauce. Stir to coat the pasta completely with the creamy sauce. This step is where the magic happens—the creamy sauce will hug every piece of pasta, making sure each bite is as cheesy and delicious as the last.

Step 4: Bake the Mac and Cheese

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.

For the crispy topping, combine breadcrumbs and melted butter in a small bowl, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling around the edges.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the mac and cheese is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the sauce to thicken slightly, making it even more delicious. Serve it hot, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite!

Tips for the Perfect Baked Mac and Cheese

  • Use a mix of cheeses: While sharp cheddar is the star, adding a bit of mozzarella creates a gooey, melty texture. The Parmesan adds a bit of sharpness and helps the topping crisp up beautifully.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta: Since the pasta will bake in the oven, make sure to cook it just until al dente to avoid it becoming mushy.
  • Experiment with toppings: If you like a little extra crunch, you can add a layer of crushed crackers or even sprinkle some cooked bacon on top.
  • Make it ahead: You can prepare the mac and cheese up to the point of baking, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

This recipe takes comfort food to the next level with its creamy sauce, perfectly baked crust, and satisfying flavors. It’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste—whether you like your mac and cheese plain and simple, or you want to jazz it up with extras like bacon, garlic, or extra cheese.

Perfect for any occasion, this creamy baked macaroni and cheese is sure to become a go-to dish in your home. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a gathering, or craving a comforting dinner, this recipe will deliver every time.

Final Thoughts

Baked macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, and this recipe proves that homemade versions are always worth the effort. The combination of creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and crispy topping will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready for the best mac and cheese you’ve ever had. Enjoy!

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