Description
Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
For the Cheese Sauce:
3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk, warmed
1 cup heavy cream, warmed
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Pasta:
1 lb elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
1 cup shredded cheese (for topping)
Optional Topping:
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste.
Gradually add the warmed milk and cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Reduce the heat to low and gradually mix in the cheeses until smooth and creamy.
Combine:
Toss the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until well-coated.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
Add Topping:
Sprinkle the top with additional shredded cheese.
(Optional) Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese layer for a crispy topping.
Bake:
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly on top.
Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness, if desired.
Serve:
Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with freshly cracked black pepper or parsley.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6-8
#MacAndCheeseGoals #ComfortFood
