Ultimate Baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese

Imagine a creamy, cheesy delight that transports you straight to comfort food heaven – the Ultimate Baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese. This recipe is a symphony of flavors and textures, a perfect blend of rich, gooey cheese, tender pasta, and a crunchy golden topping that will make your taste buds sing with joy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

1. Cook macaroni according to the package directions. Drain.
2. In a large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour until the mixture becomes paste-like and light golden brown.
3. Gradually whisk in milk so that no lumps form, and continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
4. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
5. Lower the heat, and stir in salt, black pepper, paprika, and 1 1/2 cups Cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Fold the macaroni into the mix and pour into a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
7. Melt the remaining butter in a skillet over medium heat. Mix in the breadcrumbs until coated with the butter. Spread evenly over the macaroni and cheese to cover.
8. Bake in the preheated oven until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly, about 20 minutes.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Yield: 6 servings

Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, this Ultimate Baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese is a crowd-pleaser. Perfectly cooked pasta is enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, and baked to golden perfection.

Nutritional Information (per serving): Calories 450, Fat 25g, Carbohydrates 35g, Protein 20g

Indulge in the warm, cheesy embrace of this Ultimate Baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese recipe, a dish that’s not just a meal but a heartfelt experience. It’s a culinary masterpiece that brings families together, leaving them with satisfied smiles and fond memories. So, gather your loved ones, set the table, and get ready for a taste sensation that will keep you coming back for more.