Discover the ultimate comfort food with this classic baked macaroni and cheese recipe. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a crispy golden crust, this dish is a family favorite that never goes out of style. Perfect for cozy dinners or as a side at gatherings, this macaroni and cheese is rich, flavorful, and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients:
- For the Macaroni:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- Salt, for boiling water
- For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Cook the Macaroni:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute, creating a roux.
- Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Combine and Bake:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Stir until the macaroni is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. The cheese sauce should be bubbling around the edges.
- Serve:
- Let the macaroni and cheese sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set. Enjoy warm as a comforting main dish or side!
This classic baked macaroni and cheese recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its creamy texture and deliciously crunchy topping, it’s a perfect blend of comfort and flavor.