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Cozy Creamy Mac and Cheese That Comforts Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 73 reviews
  • Author: Victor
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Cozy Creamy Mac and Cheese recipe delivers the ultimate comfort food experience with a luscious blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses enveloping perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. Topped with a golden, buttery breadcrumb crust, it’s baked to bubbly, cheesy perfection—a classic dish that’s easy to make and irresistibly satisfying.

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 the macaroni: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Make the roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly and fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add the milk: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 4-5 minutes.
  4. Add the cheeses: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and grated parmesan cheeses until completely melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to your taste.
  5. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and gently mix until every piece is thoroughly coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
  6. Prepare topping: If using breadcrumbs, combine them with the melted butter until evenly coated.
  7. Assemble and bake: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture 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 serve warm for the best comforting experience.

Notes

  • Using freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded ensures a smoother cheese sauce.
  • For a richer flavor, whole milk or 2% milk works best in the cheese sauce.
  • Breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a delightful crispy texture contrast.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or 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, cheddar cheese, homemade mac and cheese

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