Mac and Cheese Creamy, Cheesy, and Irresistible

Mac and Cheese: Creamy, Cheesy, and Irresistible

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This mac and cheese recipe is the epitome of comfort food, combining creamy cheese sauce with perfectly cooked pasta for a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve a rich and comforting meal. The secret to this mac and cheese lies in the blend of cheeses and the crispy breadcrumb topping that adds a delightful crunch.

Ingredients:

  • Pasta:
    • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • Cheese Sauce:
    • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
    • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
    • 2 cups whole milk
    • 1 cup heavy cream
    • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
    • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
    • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
    • 1/2 tsp onion powder
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Breadcrumb Topping:
    • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
    • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
    • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    • 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.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
    • In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook, whisking constantly, for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux and becomes slightly golden.
    • Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture starts to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
    • Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
    • Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  3. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
    • Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
  4. Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping:
    • In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, grated Parmesan, and dried thyme (if using). Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
  5. Assemble and Bake:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish (about 9×13 inches). Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbling.
  6. Serve:
    • Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight with a side salad or your favorite veggies!

This mac and cheese recipe is sure to become a favorite with its rich, creamy texture and crispy topping. It’s the perfect dish for any cheese lover!

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