Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes evoke the same nostalgic warmth as macaroni and cheese. This classic staple has been a beloved favorite across generations, often serving as a childhood delight or a go-to dish for family gatherings. Whether enjoyed as a simple weeknight dinner or dressed up for a special occasion, macaroni and cheese embodies the essence of comfort, providing not just nourishment but also a sense of home.

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Velvety Delight Baked Macaroni & Cheese, a dish that elevates the classic comfort food to new heights. Crafted with a rich blend of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and cream cheese, this creamy recipe is the perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion. With a crunchy panko topping, it’s not just delicious, but also an inviting centerpiece for family gatherings and potlucks. Gather around the table and create cherished memories with this irresistible dish.

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Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

¼ cup all-purpose flour

4 cups whole milk

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded

1 cup cream cheese, softened

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons olive oil

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the macaroni: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until bubbly. Gradually whisk in the milk. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the mixture thickens and is smooth (about 5-7 minutes).

Add the cheeses: Reduce heat to low and stir in the sharp cheddar cheese, Gruyère cheese, and cream cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Add garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to taste.

Combine pasta and sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated.

Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil and smoked paprika until well combined.

Assemble the dish: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the panko mixture over the top.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool for a minute, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | Serves 6-8