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Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

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A gooey and creamy baked macaroni and cheese that evokes warm memories and is perfect for family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • Water for boiling
  • Salt for pasta water
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the Roux: In another pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook until golden, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Add the Creamy Goodness: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream. Cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Flavor it Up: Stir in garlic powder, dry mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Cheesy Mix: Lower the heat and add the shredded cheeses. Stir until melted and incorporated.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Fold in the cooked macaroni until coated with the cheese sauce.
  7. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish.
  8. Add the Topping: Mix panko with melted butter and smoked paprika, then sprinkle over the macaroni.
  9. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown.

Notes

For variations, consider adding shredded chicken for a Buffalo twist, or veggies like broccoli for added nutrition.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni and cheese, comfort food, baked pasta, cheesy recipe

Find it online: https://ivoryapron.com/creamy-baked-macaroni-and-cheese/