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Best Baked Mac Cheese Recipe: Creamy and Comforting

Baked Mac Cheese
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This homemade baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, featuring a rich, creamy cheese sauce and golden, crispy topping.

Ingredients

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  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ cups whole milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 16 oz elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Boil salted water and cook elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
  2. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk and cream, whisking constantly. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened. Add cheeses, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and mustard. Stir until smooth.
  3. Stir cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, adding reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
  4. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  5. Mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
  6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden brown. Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra crispy topping.
  7. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • Perfect for any family meal, potluck, or special occasion.
  • This mac and cheese is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://keepityummy.com/baked-mac-cheese/

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