Description
A deliciously creamy and cheesy baked macaroni dish topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkle over the macaroni.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables to the macaroni mixture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg