Ultimate Baked Macaroni and Cheese: A Creamy, Cheesy Recipe with a Crispy Golden Top!

Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for 5-7 minutes, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens.
4. Add the Cheeses: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if desired.
5. Combine the Macaroni and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Stir until the macaroni is well coated.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Add the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
8. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the macaroni and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes:

For a creamier texture, use half-and-half instead of milk. You can also mix in cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or broccoli for added flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450 kcal
Fat	25g
Carbohydrates	35g
Protein	15g

User Reviews:

Sarah L.: "This mac and cheese was delicious! The crispy breadcrumb topping was the perfect touch."

James K.: "Super cheesy and comforting. Definitely a hit at our family dinner."