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Cozy Creamy Mac and Cheese That Comforts Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 144 reviews
  • Author: Zoe
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Cozy Creamy Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a comforting, homemade dish featuring tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce made from sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan. Topped with a golden, buttery breadcrumb crust, this classic baked mac and cheese is perfect for a satisfying family meal any time of year.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Topping (Optional)

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Make Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, whisking constantly until the mixture becomes bubbly and lightly golden, which helps eliminate the raw flour taste.
  3. Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the 2 cups of milk while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring frequently until it thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency.
  4. Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses until they are completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  5. Combine Macaroni and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to ensure every piece is well coated in the creamy mixture.
  6. Prepare Topping (Optional): If you prefer a crispy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until all crumbs are evenly coated.
  7. Bake: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs over the top if using. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbly.
  8. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your warm, comforting mac and cheese!

Notes

  • For extra creaminess, substitute half-and-half for milk.
  • You can add cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for variation.
  • Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • The breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a delightful crunch.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta

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Find it online: https://cookingwithzoe.com/cozy-creamy-mac-and-cheese-that-comforts-recipe/