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Comfort food holds a special place in our hearts, offering warmth and satisfaction that transcends cultures. Among the myriad of comfort dishes, baked mac and cheese stands out as a universally loved favorite. This rich, creamy dish has become a staple in households across various regions, beloved for its gooey cheese and tender pasta. Whether served at family gatherings, potlucks, or during a cozy night in, it never fails to delight.

Easy Baked Macaroni and Cheese for Dinner

Dive into the comfort of Creamy Dreamy Baked Mac & Cheese with this mouthwatering recipe! This beloved dish features a perfect blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan for a rich, gooey experience. With step-by-step instructions, you'll create a velvety cheese sauce to coat al dente elbow macaroni, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer. It's ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Experience the joy of homemade mac and cheese that will have everyone asking for seconds!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz elbow macaroni

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

3 cups milk (whole or 2%)

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create an ideal baking environment.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente texture (firm but not hard). Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

      Make the Cheese Sauce:

        - In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it is fully liquid.

          - Whisk in the flour thoroughly to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.

            - Gradually pour in the milk while continuously whisking to eliminate any lumps.

              - Keep stirring as the mixture heats up, cooking for approximately 5-7 minutes until it thickens and begins to bubble.

                - Lower the heat, then stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper for added flavor.

                  - Finally, remove the pan from heat and blend in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

                    Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Stir well to ensure every piece of pasta is perfectly coated with the creamy sauce.

                      Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

                        Add Topping (Optional): If you desire a crispy topping, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the surface of the macaroni and cheese.

                          Bake: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top layer is golden brown and bubbly.

                            Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few moments. If desired, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and aroma. Serve warm and indulge in your rich and creamy baked mac and cheese!

                              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6