**Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese: An Ultimate Comfort Food**
**Introduction**
There’s something magical about a plate of creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked macaroni. This easy-to-make Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese recipe will satisfy your cheese cravings and add a touch of comfort to any meal. Its indulgent cheese blend and crispy breadcrumb topping make it a sure hit for both kids and adults alike!
**Why Make this Recipe**
Mac and Cheese is a timeless comfort food that brings instant warmth and happiness. However, this recipe is not just your average mac and cheese. It uses a blend of three different cheeses, with a dash of garlic, onion, and smoked paprika for an extra punch of flavor. The end result is a creamy, rich, and flavorful dish.
**How to Make Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese**
* **Ingredients:**
– 12 oz elbow macaroni
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
* **Directions:**
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook until slightly golden.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream until the mixture thickens.
5. Stir in 2 cups of cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese.
6. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
7. Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni.
8. Transfer the macaroni into a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs and the remaining cheddar cheese.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
**How to Serve Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese**
This creamy mac and cheese is best served hot, right out of the oven. Enjoy it as a main dish with some garlic bread on the side, or as a comforting side dish beside your favorite protein.
**How to Store Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese**
To store leftovers, let the mac and cheese cool completely. Transfer the leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be kept for up to 5 days. To reheat, microwave for a few minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
**Tips to Make Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese**
– Always use quality ingredients. The quality of cheese, in particular, can make a significant difference in the taste.
– Cook your macaroni until it’s al dente, to avoid a mushy texture after baking.
– Add the cheese sauce to the al dente macaroni while it’s still hot for better absorption and distribution of flavors.
– Give the dish a final taste before baking, as the flavors mute a bit after baking.
**Variations**
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, like Gouda, or snuck in some nutritional boosters such as pureed cauliflower or butternut squash into the cheese sauce.
**FAQs**
1. **Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this recipe?**
– Yes, but it may not melt as smoothly since pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents.
2. **Can I make it ahead?**
– Yes, assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
3. **Is it suitable for vegetarians?**
– Yes, this recipe is completely vegetarian!