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Macaroni and cheese is more than just a dish; it’s a heartwarming experience that evokes feelings of nostalgia and comfort. This beloved classic has earned its place in kitchens around the world, from family dinners to festive gatherings. The rich, creamy goodness of the cheese sauce enveloped around perfectly cooked pasta has made it a staple for generations. Whether you’re seeking a dish to please picky eaters or a comforting meal after a long day, macaroni and cheese fits the bill.

Creamy Baked Macaroni with Crispy Topping

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Dreamy Baked Mac & Crispy Crunch recipe! Experience the rich, creamy cheese sauce lovingly enveloping pasta, topped with a delightful crispy layer that takes the classic dish to a new level. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home, this recipe invites you to customize with your favorite cheeses and toppings. Discover the joy of sharing this nostalgic favorite with your loved ones. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
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Ingredients
  

Macaroni:

8 oz elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce:

2 cups whole milk

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

Crispy Topping:

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

      Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.

        Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat.

          Melt the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure all pasta is coated in the delicious sauce.

              Prepare the Crispy Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan cheese. This creates a flavorful, crispy topping.

                Assemble the Dish: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the crispy topping over the macaroni.

                  Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

                    Serve: Once baked, let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy delight!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 6 servings