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Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe – Easy Homemade Comfort with Crispy Topping

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This creamy baked mac and cheese features a velvety cheese sauce made with cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese, all topped with a crispy, golden panko-parmesan crust. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz elbow macaroni (about 4 cups dry)
  • Salt, for boiling water
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated (for topping)
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 6-7 minutes. Drain and set aside. Toss with a splash of melted butter to prevent sticking.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbling but not browned.
  4. Pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened, about 4-5 minutes.
  5. Lower heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, cream cheese, and parmesan until fully melted and creamy.
  6. Whisk in Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning. If sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk.
  7. Add drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and gently fold until all noodles are coated. Pour mixture into the prepared casserole dish and smooth the top.
  8. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, parmesan, and melted butter until evenly coated. Sprinkle topping over the mac and cheese, covering the surface evenly. Add chopped parsley if desired.
  9. Bake on the center oven rack for 22-25 minutes, until the topping is golden and the sides are bubbling. For extra crunch, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
  10. Remove from oven and let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. Scoop and serve hot.

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce. Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue to soften while baking. Assemble ahead and refrigerate, then bake just before serving. For gluten-free or dairy-free adaptations, substitute ingredients as needed. Add veggies or cooked meats for variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, baked macaroni, comfort food, creamy mac and cheese, casserole, family dinner, easy recipe, cheese, pasta, potluck

Find it online: https://avabake.com/creamy-baked-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-homemade-comfort-with-crispy-topping/