Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Creating the ultimate Cheesy Bliss Baked Macaroni starts with understanding the key ingredients that contribute to its exceptional flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role in crafting a dish that is not only delicious but also comforting and satisfying.

Create lasting memories with the ultimate comfort food: Cheesy Bliss Baked Macaroni. This rich and creamy dish features a delightful blend of sharp cheddar and nutty Gruyère cheese, all enveloped in a velvety sauce that clings to each piece of perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. Topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs for that ideal crunch, it's a dish perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Explore the joy of crafting this cheesy classic, and savor every indulgent bite.

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Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni until al dente (about 6-7 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk for about 2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).

Add Cheeses and Seasoning: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the sharp cheddar, Gruyère, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated.

Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of salt. This will create a crunchy topping.

Assemble the Dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the panko mixture over the top.

Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, then serve hot and enjoy!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | 6 servings