Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Baked macaroni and cheese is more than just a dish; it's a beloved comfort food that holds a special place in the hearts and stomachs of many. From its creamy texture to its cheesy goodness, this classic dish embodies warmth and nostalgia, making it a go-to meal for families across generations. While store-bought versions may offer convenience, nothing compares to the rich, customized flavors of a homemade batch. The aroma of bubbling cheese wafting through the kitchen is enough to evoke memories of family gatherings, potlucks, and celebrations.

Dive into the comforting world of baked macaroni and cheese, a classic dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to any table. This guide takes you step-by-step through creating your own cheesy masterpiece, from selecting the best ingredients to perfecting the creamy sauce. With tips on variations and personalizing your dish, you’ll discover why this beloved comfort food has stood the test of time. Perfect for cozy nights or gatherings, it's a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

8 ounces elbow macaroni

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

4 cups whole milk

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil (for breadcrumbs)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a roux.

Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.

Season the Sauce: Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the sauce, mixing well. Remove the saucepan from heat.

Incorporate the Cheese: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese until fully melted and creamy. Reserve 1/2 cup of the cheddar for topping later.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is fully coated.

Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

Make the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with olive oil and reserved cheddar cheese. Mix until the breadcrumbs are well-coated.

Assemble and Bake: Evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture over the macaroni and cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Serve: Let the dish cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | Serves 6-8