Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese: A Comfort Food Favorite

There’s nothing quite like the rich and creamy delight of baked macaroni and cheese. This dish is a quintessential comfort food, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or simply as a comforting meal on a chilly day. With its golden, bubbly top and gooey, cheesy center, it’s no wonder mac and cheese is a beloved classic.

Ingredients:

1 pound elbow macaroni
4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook the Macaroni: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly until it forms a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens and is smooth.
Add the Cheese and Seasonings: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the mustard powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
Combine with Macaroni: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine until the pasta is evenly coated.
Bake the Macaroni and Cheese: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle a little extra cheddar cheese on top for a golden crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the classic baked macaroni and cheese with its perfect blend of creamy and crispy textures.

Why It’s a Favorite:

Comforting Texture: The combination of creamy cheese sauce and tender macaroni is the epitome of comfort food.
Rich Flavor: The blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses provides a depth of flavor that’s both rich and satisfying.
Versatility: Macaroni and cheese can be enjoyed as a main dish or a side, and it’s easily customizable with add-ins like bacon, breadcrumbs, or vegetables.

Tips for Perfect Macaroni and Cheese:

For an extra crunchy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top before baking.
Experiment with different cheese combinations, such as Gruyere, Fontina, or Gouda, for a unique twist.
To make it even creamier, add an extra splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce.

Baked macaroni and cheese is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Give this classic recipe a try, and enjoy the timeless joy of mac and cheese.

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