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Comfort food holds a special place in the hearts of many, serving not only as a delicious meal but also as a nostalgic reminder of home-cooked goodness. Among the many beloved dishes, Cheesy Delight Mac & Cheese Casserole stands out as a quintessential favorite. This dish offers a creamy texture that envelops tender pasta, an abundance of cheesy goodness, and a perfectly crispy topping that adds a delightful contrast. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner, a potluck, or simply indulging in a cozy night in, this mac and cheese casserole is sure to please.

Kid-Friendly Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Cheesy Delight Mac & Cheese Casserole! This creamy and cheesy dish is perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to cozy nights in. Made with elbow macaroni, a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, and topped with a crispy breadcrumb finish, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Learn how to craft this delicious recipe and bring warm, nostalgic flavors to your home cooking.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups elbow macaroni

4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)

3 cups milk

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup breadcrumbs

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter, ensuring it's well coated to prevent sticking.

    Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside to cool slightly.

      Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

        - In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.

          - Once the butter is melted and bubbling, whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.

            - Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens and begins to simmer gently.

              Flavor the Sauce:

                - Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

                  - Add 3 cups of the sharp cheddar cheese, all of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

                    Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix thoroughly, ensuring every piece of pasta is well coated with the cheesy goodness.

                      Transfer to Baking Dish: Carefully pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

                        Prepare the Topping:

                          - In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the remaining Parmesan cheese and olive oil. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the oil and cheese.

                            Top It Off: Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the macaroni and cheese in the baking dish, creating a uniform layer over the entire surface.

                              Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.

                                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an inviting contrast of color and freshness.

                                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings

                                    - Presentation Tips: To enhance the visual appeal, serve the casserole directly from the baking dish, scooping out portions onto individual plates. A sprinkle of extra parsley on top before serving adds a vibrant touch!