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Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) Recipe

Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) Recipe

4.9 from 18 reviews

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this delicious Baked Mac and Cheese recipe. It’s cheesy, creamy, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Macaroni:

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  3. Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until thickened, about 5 minutes. Add salt, pepper, and paprika.
  4. Add the cheeses: Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  5. Combine and bake: Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, then pour into the baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and panko breadcrumbs. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  6. Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Baked Mac and Cheese, Macaroni and Cheese, Comfort Food, Cheesy Pasta