The Ultimate Cheesy Baked Macaroni Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic

Cheesy Baked Macaroni Recipe

Indulge in the comforting embrace of the ultimate cheesy baked macaroni, a dish that promises to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. This classic recipe is a delightful combination of tender pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, topped with a golden, crispy crust. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in, this baked macaroni is sure to become a staple in your home.

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The secret to this irresistible dish lies in the harmonious blend of cheeses, each contributing its unique flavor and texture. Typically, a combination of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan is used, but feel free to experiment with your favorites. The key is to achieve a balance between creaminess and flavor, ensuring every bite is a cheesy delight.

Ingredients

• 500grams elbow macaroni
• 4tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4cup all-purpose flour
• 3cups whole milk
• 1cup heavy cream
• 1teaspoon salt
• 1/2teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2teaspoon onion powder
• 2cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
• 1cup mozzarella cheese shredded
• 1/2cup parmesan cheese grated
• 1cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2tablespoons melted butter
• 1tablespoon fresh parsley (optional) chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch dish and set aside.
2. Cook the maxaroni
   • In a large pot, bring salted water to boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce
   • In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps.
4. Season the Sauce
   • Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
5. Add the Cheese
   • Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce
   • Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing well to ensure all the pasta is evenly coated.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish
   • Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the preparing baking dish, spreading evenly.
8. Prepare the Topping
   • In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
9. Bake
   • Place the baking dish in the prevented oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
10. Garnish and Serve
    • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley If desired and enjoy.

Cheesy baked macaroni is the epitome of simple yet indulgent comfort food. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a favorite among both kids and adults. By following this recipe, you can create a dish that’s perfectly balanced in flavor and texture, with a golden, bubbly to that’s sure to impress. Whether you stick to the classic version or add your own creative touch, this cheesy baled macaroni is bound to become a staple in your recipe collection. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a timeless dish that warms both the heart and soul.