CREAMY BAKED MAC AND CHEESE

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot like a bowl of creamy, cheesy baked mac and cheese. This classic dish, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and special occasions, offers rich, satisfying flavors with every bite. Our creamy baked mac and cheese recipe is easy to make and ensures you enjoy the perfect combination of a crispy top layer with a smooth, cheesy interior. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible dish from scratch!

Why This Recipe Stands Out

While boxed mac and cheese is a go-to for many, nothing compares to homemade. This creamy baked mac and cheese is made with a blend of cheeses for depth of flavor and is baked to create a crunchy top that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta beneath. It’s comfort food that brings people together and makes any meal feel special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make creamy baked mac and cheese, gather the following ingredients:

• Pasta: 16 ounces of elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta shape)
• Cheese Sauce:
  • 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups of whole milk (preferably warm)
  • 1 cup of heavy cream
  • 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon of paprika (optional for added flavor)
• Topping:
  • 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons of melted butter
  • 1/2 cup of additional shredded cheddar cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Cook the Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux. Gradually pour in the warm milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and remove from heat.

3. Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.

4. Prepare the Topping

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