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Creamy and Cheesy Baked Macaroni

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Creamy and Cheesy Baked Macaroni is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender elbow pasta with a rich, velvety cheese sauce topped with a crunchy breadcrumb finish. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also perfect for gatherings with friends and family. Each gooey bite brings back nostalgic memories, making it a beloved classic that everyone will enjoy. Elevate your next meal or potluck with this delightful recipe that promises to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup toasted breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain well.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the flour until smooth; cook for about 1 minute.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring until thickened (5-7 minutes).
  5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  6. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, then transfer to the greased baking dish. Top with toasted breadcrumbs.
  7. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: For extra creaminess, add cream cheese into the cheese mixture. Customize by adding cooked bacon or sautéed veggies like spinach or broccoli. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat at 350°F until warmed through.

Find it online: https://onedaycooking.com/creamy-and-cheesy-baked-macaroni-a-comforting-delight/