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Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is a comforting and indulgent dish that features tender pasta enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. It's a perfect side dish or can be served as a main course.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Dish or Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 People
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large pot
  • 1 colander
  • 1 9x13 inch baking dish
  • 1 medium saucepan
  • 1 whisk
  • 1 spoon or spatula
  • 1 oven

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni Approximately 2 cups.
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste none salt and black pepper
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
  • Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and season with salt and black pepper. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
  • Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a large bowl, stirring to coat the pasta thoroughly.
  • Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and olive oil. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
  • Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

You can customize this recipe by adding cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, or vegetables like broccoli for added flavor and nutrition.
For a spicier take, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven before serving.