The Ultimate Comfort Food: Macaroni and Cheese
This baked macaroni and cheese features perfectly cooked pasta surrounded by a velvety cheese sauce, topped with crispy breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch. It's a dish that offers both warmth and indulgence, making it a favorite for many.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup breadcrumbs for topping
- 2 tablespoons melted butter for topping
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Combine: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top and Bake: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious baked macaroni and cheese!
Notes
- Calories: 550kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g