Description
This comforting Mac and Cheese Casserole features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce made from sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Topped with a crunchy breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture baked to golden perfection, it’s a classic, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz (340g) elbow macaroni
Sauce
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Topping
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in Flour: Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Add the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce thoroughly and transfer it to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Topping: Combine breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan, and paprika in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pasta.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving to let it set slightly.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, use whole milk and heavy cream as specified.
- Dijon mustard is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.
- Breadcrumb topping can be made gluten-free by substituting with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Letting the casserole rest before serving helps the sauce thicken and become less runny.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
