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Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

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A comforting and nostalgic dish of creamy baked macaroni and cheese, perfect for family gatherings and cozy nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • Water for boiling
  • Salt for pasta water
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add in the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux. Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until it thickens, about 5 minutes. Then add the garlic powder, dry mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add the Cheese: Reduce heat to low and slowly add in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, stirring until melted.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the sauce over the macaroni and stir to coat.
  5. Prepare for Baking: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and smoked paprika if desired.
  6. Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Notes

Feel free to add vegetables or proteins for variations. Leftover mac and cheese can also be baked in a muffin tin for fun mac bites.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni and cheese, baked pasta, comfort food, family recipe

Find it online: https://basilboard.com/minute-creamy-baked-macaroni-and-cheese-one-pan-comfort/