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Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Indulge in this rich and creamy baked mac and cheese, featuring a velvety cheese sauce and a crunchy topping. Perfect for comfort food or a side dish, this recipe serves 6 people.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 People
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large pot
  • 1 colander
  • 1 9x13-inch baking dish
  • 1 saucepan
  • 1 whisk
  • 1 mixing spoon
  • 1 oven

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni About 2 cups.
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk Preferably whole milk.
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • Salt and pepper To taste.
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs For topping.
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter For topping.

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 6-8 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
  • In a saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to create a roux.
  • Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
  • Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well combined.
  • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Mix well, then sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
  • Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon or diced vegetables like broccoli or spinach.
You can use a combination of different cheeses, such as Gruyère or gouda, for a unique taste.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.