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Baked Macaroni and Cheese

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Creamy, cheesy, and utterly delightful, Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a classic comfort food that everyone loves.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Instructions

  1. Boil the Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  3. Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens—about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the sauce. Stir until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well-coated.
  6. Prepare for Baking: Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch if desired.
  7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20–30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your comforting dish!

Notes

Don’t overcook the pasta; whisk constantly to avoid lumps. You can customize the cheese and add different spices.