Description
A warm and comforting baked mac and cheese that combines creamy cheeses and tender macaroni, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- Optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until fully melted.
- Add the salt, pepper, paprika, and mustard powder, mixing everything together until well combined.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni, making sure each noodle gets a cheesy coating.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious creation!
Notes
Mix different cheeses for a richer flavor and let the mac and cheese rest for 5-10 minutes after baking for better serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, comfort food, Southern recipe, cheese lovers