Description
A classic comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with crispy breadcrumbs. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Add salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and pour into the prepared baking dish.
- Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and panko breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, add cooked bacon or ham. Experiment with different cheeses or add vegetables for a twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg