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The Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese – Creamy, Cheesy, and Irresistible

The Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese – Creamy, Cheesy, and Irresistible
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This Baked Mac and Cheese is ultra-creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping. Made with a rich homemade cheese sauce and tender pasta, it’s the ultimate comfort food for family dinners, potlucks, and holidays.

Ingredients

Units Scale

  • Mac and Cheese:

    • 12 oz elbow macaroni
    • 4 tbsp butter
    • 4 tbsp flour
    • 3 cups whole milk
    • 1 cup heavy cream
    • 2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
    • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
    • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
    • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
    • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
    • Salt & pepper to taste

  • Topping:

    • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
    • 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni until just al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until golden and bubbly. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until thickened.
  3. Add the Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Mix in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until fully coated.
  5. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter.
  6. Assemble and Bake: Pour the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish, then sprinkle the buttery breadcrumbs evenly on top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for the best texture. Pre-shredded cheese can make the sauce grainy.
  • Avoid overcooking the pasta—it will continue cooking in the oven.
  • For extra creaminess, stir in a little cream cheese or an extra splash of heavy cream.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbyandy.com/the-ultimate-baked-mac-and-cheese-creamy-cheesy-and-irresistible/