Looking for a creamy, cheesy comfort dish? This delicious baked mac and cheese, topped with crunchy breadcrumbs, is the perfect crowd-pleaser for any meal.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2:
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
Step 3:
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Step 4:
Add flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until golden.
Step 5:
Slowly stir in milk and heavy cream, whisking until thickened.
Step 6:
Stir in garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 7:
Remove from heat and add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.
Step 8:
Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni, mixing well.
Step 9:
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
Step 10:
In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan; sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
Step 11:
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 12:
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Pairings
- Side Salad: A refreshing side salad balances the rich flavors of mac and cheese and adds a healthful touch.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies provide a lovely contrast in texture and flavor, enhancing your meal.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.