Cheesy Comfort Delight Recipe for Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
This Easy Baked Macaroni & Cheese is a comforting dish featuring creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- to taste salt
- to taste freshly ground black pepper
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
- Melt the unsalted butter in the same pot, whisk in the flour to form a roux.
- Gradually add milk while whisking until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella until melted, then add seasonings.
- Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and olive oil in a bowl, then sprinkle over the pasta.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, consider garnishing with fresh herbs before serving.