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Macaroni and Cheese (Super Creamy) recipe guide.

A rich and decadent Macaroni and Cheese recipe featuring a blend of three cheeses and a crispy breadcrumb topping for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente, drain, and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in flour for 1-2 minutes to create a light golden roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in whole milk. Stir continuously for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
  4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until completely melted and smooth.
  5. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
  6. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F and transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  8. Mix breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Optional: broil for 2-3 minutes for extra crunch.
  10. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

Notes

  • Do not rinse the pasta after draining; the starch helps the sauce stick to the noodles.
  • Use block cheese and shred it yourself for a smoother melt compared to pre-shredded bags.
  • Watch the broiler closely to prevent the breadcrumbs from burning.
  • Substitute Panko breadcrumbs for extra texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Macaroni and Cheese, Super Creamy Mac and Cheese, Baked Macaroni, Three Cheese Pasta, Comfort Food