Baked Mac and Cheese

Indulging in a warm, creamy bowl of mac and cheese is a delightful comfort food experience that evokes nostalgia and happiness. For many, it conjures up memories of cozy family dinners, animated gatherings with friends, or even quiet nights spent enjoying a simple yet satisfying meal. Among the myriad variations of this beloved dish, the Cheesy Dream Baked Mac & Cheese stands out as a true culinary masterpiece. This decadent recipe marries the richness of three types of cheese with the satisfying texture of perfectly cooked al dente elbow macaroni, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Bring warmth and joy to your kitchen with our Cheesy Dream Baked Mac & Cheese recipe. This indulgent dish features a creamy blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, melded with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni and topped with a delightful crunch. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, it's easy to make and sure to impress. Discover step-by-step instructions to craft this comfort food classic, elevating your mac and cheese game to a whole new level!

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Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a roux (thick paste).

- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 3-5 minutes.

- Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and creamy.

- Add garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Stir until all the pasta is well coated.

Prepare the Topping:

- In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, olive oil, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with oil.

Assemble the Dish:

- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

- Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Evenly spread the breadcrumb mixture over the top.

Bake:

- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Garnish:

- Once out of the oven, allow the baked mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color before serving.

Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 50 mins | Servings: 6-8