Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Baked mac and cheese is a culinary classic that has won the hearts of many as a quintessential comfort food. With its warm, cheesy embrace and creamy texture, this dish evokes feelings of nostalgia for family gatherings, late-night snacks, and holiday feasts. While macaroni and cheese can be prepared in countless ways, this recipe takes it to a new level of indulgence, creating a heavenly creamy baked mac and cheese that promises to please even the most discerning palates.

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Heavenly Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese recipe. Bursting with flavor, it features elbow macaroni coated in a luxurious cheese sauce made from a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese. With a crispy breadcrumb topping, it's as satisfying as it is delicious. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights at home, this dish will elevate any meal. Discover the secrets to making this creamy delight and impress your loved ones with your culinary skills.

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Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1 cup cream cheese, softened

3 cups whole milk

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon mustard powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Cheeses: Once the sauce is thickened, reduce the heat to low and add in the cream cheese, stirring until fully melted. Then mix in the sharp cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese, reserving some cheese for topping, until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

Season the Sauce: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring all the pasta is coated evenly.

Prepare for Baking: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. If desired, sprinkle the reserved cheese on top, followed by breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.

Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8