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Baked and Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

Golden Baked Mac and Cheese

This baked and creamy macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Made with a blend of cheeses and a crispy topping, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 6 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
  4. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
  5. Stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from heat and stir in 3 cups of cheddar cheese, Gruyere cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
  7. Pour macaroni and cheese into the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
  8. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
  10. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, try using a combination of different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or Gouda. You can also add a sprinkle of paprika to the breadcrumb topping for a hint of spice.