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In the world of comfort food, few dishes evoke the warmth and nostalgia of a classic macaroni and cheese. However, the Cheesy Delight Mac & Crunch elevates this beloved staple to new heights. With its rich, creamy texture complemented by a crispy topping, this dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together around the dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a comforting dish to enjoy on a cozy night in, Cheesy Delight Mac & Crunch promises to satisfy cravings and create lasting memories.

Creamy Baked Macaroni with Crispy Topping

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy Delight Mac & Crunch! This delightful dish takes classic macaroni and cheese to the next level, featuring a creamy cheese sauce and a perfectly crispy topping. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in, every bite is a warm embrace of flavor. With easy step-by-step instructions, even novice cooks can create this heartwarming recipe that’s bound to impress. Gather your loved ones and enjoy the comforting goodness!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz elbow macaroni

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

2 cups whole milk

1/2 cup heavy cream

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and set aside.

      Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s completely liquid. Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and turns a light golden color.

        Incorporate Dairy: Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Let the mixture cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a creamy consistency.

          Seasoning Time: Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the sauce. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until they are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

            Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Gently fold the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring that every piece is generously coated with the cheesy goodness.

              Prepare for Baking: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even baking.

                Create the Crunchy Topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this crunchy topping evenly over the macaroni and cheese mixture for a delightful contrast.

                  Bake to Perfection: Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping turns a beautiful golden brown and crispy.

                    Garnish and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a bright finish.

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | 6-8 servings

                        - Presentation Suggestions: Serve directly from the baking dish, or portion into individual bowls for a more elegant presentation. Consider placing a few extra sprigs of parsley on top for a touch of color!