
Mac & Cheese Recipe
Creamy mac & cheese with a crunchy topping.
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Ingredients
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Pasta
Cheese Sauce
Topping
Method
Pasta Preparation
- 1
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cheese Sauce
- 2
Make the Roux
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- 3
Add Milk
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.
- 4
Add Cheese
Reduce heat to low and add in the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Combine and Bake
- 5
Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated.
- 6
Prepare Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
- 7
Assemble and Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Serve
- 8
Serve Hot
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy mac & cheese with a crunchy topping!