Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and mild flavor)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
- Cook the Macaroni: Boil the macaroni in salted water according to package instructions until just al dente (about 6-7 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes until smooth and slightly golden (this is a roux).
- Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using) and mix well.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat the pasta evenly.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Smooth it out to create an even layer.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crispy crust.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving for the best texture. Enjoy!
Importance of Each Ingredient
- Elbow Macaroni: This classic pasta shape is perfect for capturing the creamy cheese sauce in every bite.
- Butter and Flour (Roux): Combining these two creates a thickening agent that forms the base of the cheese sauce, giving it a smooth, rich consistency.
- Whole Milk and Heavy Cream: These provide a creamy and velvety texture, making the sauce luxuriously rich without being too heavy.
- Cheeses (Cheddar, Mozzarella, Parmesan): The cheeses bring flavor and melt beautifully. Cheddar gives a sharp taste, mozzarella provides a gooey texture, and Parmesan adds a slight nuttiness.
- Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, and Paprika: Seasonings enhance the flavor and balance the richness of the cheese.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These create a crispy top layer, adding a contrasting crunch to the soft, creamy macaroni underneath.
Each ingredient plays an important role in making this dish creamy, cheesy, and texturally balanced—perfect for a comforting baked macaroni and cheese. Enjoy!
