Description
A creamy, comforting Cheesy Delight Mac and Cheese Casserole with a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for family meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for an extra crunchy topping)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it begins to bubble. Gradually add the flour and whisk constantly, cooking for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color to create a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the whole milk, continuing to stir until the mixture comes to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and softened cream cheese to the thickened sauce. Stir continuously until all the cheeses are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Once combined, remove the saucepan from the heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained macaroni with the creamy cheese sauce. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently mix until every piece of pasta is thoroughly coated in the cheesy goodness. This step ensures your Cheesy Delight Mac and Cheese is well combined.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with olive oil. Mix well until all breadcrumbs are evenly coated with oil. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the mac and cheese in the baking dish to create a crispy topping for your Cheesy Macaroni Delight.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
- Carefully remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. For an elegant touch, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before digging in. Enjoy your Cheesy Delight Mac and Cheese Casserole!
Notes
- For an extra crunchy topping, use panko breadcrumbs.
- Shredding your own cheese from blocks will result in a smoother sauce than using pre-shredded cheese.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approx. 500-600 calories (will vary based on specific ingredients)
- Sugar: Approx. 5-10g
- Sodium: Approx. 500-800mg
- Fat: Approx. 25-35g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 15-20g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 10-15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 40-50g
- Fiber: Approx. 2-4g
- Protein: Approx. 20-25g
- Cholesterol: Approx. 70-100mg