Description
Indulge in this creamy and cheesy baked macaroni and cheese, featuring a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer, this comforting casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, bringing the ultimate comfort food to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce:
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping (optional):
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preparing the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, using about 1 tablespoon of salt. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the macaroni in a colander and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Making the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux and cook for 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden color. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens and begins to bubble, usually about 5-7 minutes. Reduce heat to low and add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring well to combine. Add the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combining Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Transfer the drained macaroni into a large mixing bowl. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and gently stir to evenly coat the macaroni. At this stage, you may optionally fold in cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or diced tomatoes to customize your casserole.
- Preparing the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly. If using the breadcrumb topping, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil in a small bowl and sprinkle the mixture over the top of the casserole.
- Baking the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Remove from oven and let sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set.
Notes
- For added flavor and texture, consider mixing in cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or spinach before baking.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste before assembling the casserole.
- The breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a delightful crunchy contrast to the creamy cheese sauce.
