Description
Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese is the epitome of comfort food, offering a creamy, cheesy base with a perfectly golden breadcrumb topping. Its nostalgic flavors are ideal for cozy family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Add salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter (optional) and sprinkle evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25