Baked Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
1 lb elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
Salt, for boiling water
For the Cheese Sauce:
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk (warm)
1 cup heavy cream
2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional)
Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tbsp melted butter
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
Directions:
Cook Pasta:
Boil pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly whisk in warm milk and cream. Stir until thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
Add Cheese & Seasoning:
Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted. Add garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
Combine with Pasta:
Mix cooked pasta into cheese sauce until fully coated.
Transfer & Top:
Pour into a greased 9×13″ baking dish. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan; sprinkle on top.
Bake:
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until golden and bubbly. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Info (per serving, serves 8):
Calories: ~450 kcal
Protein: 17 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fat: 27 g
Calcium: High