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Macaroni and Cheese Dish: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe Guide

  • Author: Dottie
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

Enjoy a creamy and cheesy macaroni and cheese made with sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners and can be baked with a crispy breadcrumb topping for added texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk (whole or 2% for creaminess)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for breadcrumbs)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
  2. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions (7-8 minutes) until al dente. Stir occasionally.
  3. Drain the macaroni in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water. Set aside.
  4. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter without browning it.
  5. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until smooth and bubbly.
  6. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
  7. Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy.
  9. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to combine.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  11. If baking, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  12. Mix breadcrumbs with olive oil in a small bowl.
  13. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  14. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
  15. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
  16. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
  17. Scoop into plates or bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
  18. Dig in and savor the cheesy goodness!

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
  • You can customize the cheese blend based on your preferences; try adding gouda or pepper jack for a twist.
  • This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

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Find it online: https://recipefantastic.com/macaroni-and-cheese-dish/