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Mind-Blowing Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Mind-Blowing Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a rich, creamy, and cheesy comfort food classic, featuring a perfectly baked golden crust and a luscious blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Creamy homemade cheese sauce coats tender elbow macaroni, baked to bubbly perfection with a crunchy breadcrumb topping that adds a delightful texture. A perfect dish to elevate your family dinner or special gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni

Cheeses

  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cheese Sauce

  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground mustard (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Topping

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • 1/2 tsp paprika (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prevent overcooking.
  2. Prepare the Roux: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes lightly golden and fragrant, forming a smooth roux.
  3. Make the Sauce: Gradually add the whole milk to the roux while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and whisking for about 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens into a creamy consistency.
  4. Add Flavor and Cheese: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, optional ground mustard, salt, and pepper to the sauce to enhance its flavor. Slowly add the shredded sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheeses while stirring gently until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce, mixing gently to coat all the pasta evenly with the creamy cheese mixture.
  6. Assemble for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the dish and sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Finally, dust with paprika for color and a hint of smoky flavor.
  7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and crispy.
  8. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the baked macaroni and cheese cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly and enhance flavors.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
  • You can substitute milk with half-and-half or cream for an even richer sauce.
  • If you like a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
  • The breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a nice crunchy texture.
  • For a vegetarian version, ensure the cheese does not contain animal rennet.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.

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Find it online: https://dailydinnersolutions.com/mind-blowing-southern-baked-macaroni-and-cheese-recipe/