Description
Enjoy a rich and creamy baked mac and cheese made with a delightful mix of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer, this comforting dish is ideal for family gatherings and will satisfy any cheese lover.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2% for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add about a tablespoon of salt.
- Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk while whisking constantly until smooth and thickened (3-5 minutes).
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (if using).
- Add 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to combine. Optionally mix in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and mix well.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- For an extra crispy top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Let the mac and cheese sit for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to customize the cheese blend to your liking; other cheeses like gouda or fontina can be delicious additions.
- For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon or vegetables like broccoli or spinach.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes