Baked Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and perfectly crispy on top. This homemade version features a rich cheese sauce, tender pasta, and a golden breadcrumb topping for the perfect blend of textures and flavors. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy meal at home, this dish is a timeless favorite.

Ingredients:

Mac and Cheese:

1 lb (0.45 kg) elbow macaroni

4 cups (0.95 L) whole milk

2 cups (0.47 L) heavy cream

4 cups (0.9 kg) shredded cheddar cheese

2 cups (0.45 kg) shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup (0.11 kg) grated Parmesan cheese

4 tbsp (0.06 kg) unsalted butter

¼ cup (0.03 kg) all-purpose flour

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp paprika

½ tsp garlic powder

Topping:

1 cup (0.11 kg) breadcrumbs

2 tbsp (0.03 kg) melted butter

¼ tsp paprika

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden. Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Add salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Gradually stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish Mix cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and transfer to a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, melted butter, and paprika. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni.

Step 4: Bake and Serve Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving: This recipe serves 6-8 people and pairs well with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.

Baked Macaroni and Cheese is the perfect blend of creamy and crispy, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion. Whether as a main course or side dish, this homemade version is sure to be a family favorite.