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The heart of any great mac and cheese lies in its cheese sauce. To achieve a perfectly creamy texture that melds seamlessly with the pasta, here are some effective tips for melting cheese:

Baked Mac & Cheese with Crunchy Topping

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Dreamy Baked Mac & Cheese featuring a crunchy topping. This recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, creating a creamy texture that’s irresistible. The addition of panko breadcrumbs gives it a delightful crunch, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Discover the magic of this beloved classic, and elevate your dining experience with each delicious bite. Enjoy a satisfying meal that evokes nostalgia and warmth, perfect for all ages.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz elbow macaroni

4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated

½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

¼ cup all-purpose flour

3 cups whole milk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon mustard powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons olive oil

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). For easy cleanup, grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a little butter or non-stick spray.

    Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions until it's al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

      Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. As soon as it’s melted and bubbling, whisk in the ¼ cup of all-purpose flour. Keep stirring for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns bubbly and golden.

        Add Milk and Spices: Gradually pour in the 3 cups of whole milk while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Continue cooking the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken. Once thickened, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

          Incorporate the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese, grated mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce. Mix until everything is smoothly melted and the sauce is deliciously creamy.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta and pour the creamy cheese sauce over it. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the cheesy goodness.

              Make the Crunchy Topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the 2 tablespoons of olive oil, smoked paprika, and the remaining grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until the breadcrumbs are nicely coated with the oil and spices.

                Assemble the Dish: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly to create a uniform layer. Sprinkle the crunchy breadcrumb topping generously over the entire surface.

                  Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and irresistibly crispy.

                    Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color, then serve hot and enjoy your creamy, dreamy creation!

                      - Prep Time: 15 minutes

                        - Total Time: 50 minutes

                          - Servings: 6-8