Mac and cheese bake –Welcome to a delightful culinary experience featuring a classic comfort food: creamy baked macaroni and cheese. This dish, adored by many, brings together a luscious blend of cheeses and perfectly cooked pasta, resulting in a meal that warms both the heart and soul. Below, you will find an enticing image of the dish, followed by the ingredients and instructions to guide you in creating this mouthwatering recipe.
Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Prepare to indulge in a rich, creamy, and cheesy delight that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In another large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until golden.
- Slowly pour in the milk while continuing to whisk. Keep whisking until the mixture becomes smooth and starts to thicken, around 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until well combined.
- Remove the pot from heat and gradually stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing thoroughly to ensure all pasta is well coated.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter, then sprinkle evenly on top of the macaroni mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
This creamy baked macaroni and cheese is a comforting dish that is sure to please family and guests alike. Enjoy the robust flavors and creamy textures that make this recipe a timeless favorite in any household.