Mac & Cheese Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 2 cups half-and-half
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

For the Topping:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Salt is crucial for adding flavor to the pasta.
2. Cook Macaroni: Add elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Avoid overcooking as the pasta will continue cooking in the oven.
3. Drain and Set Aside: Drain the cooked macaroni thoroughly to prevent excess water from affecting the sauce’s consistency. Set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

1. Melt Butter: In a large saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Use a whisk to ensure even melting without burning.
2. Make a Roux: Sprinkle in all-purpose flour, whisking constantly to form a smooth paste. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color to eliminate the raw flour taste.
3. Add Milk and Half-and-Half: Gradually whisk in whole milk and half-and-half, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Incorporate Cheeses: Reduce heat to low and gradually add shredded sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
5. Season the Sauce: Stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and Dijon mustard to enhance the flavor.

Combine with Pasta:

1. Mix with Sauce: Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well-coated. Ensure even distribution for optimal texture and flavor.

Assemble the Casserole:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared dish, spreading evenly with a spatula.

Prepare the Topping:

1. Mix Topping Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and smoked paprika. Stir until breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
2. Add Topping: Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.

Bake and Serve:

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbling around the edges.
2. Cool Slightly: Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before serving to let the sauce set slightly.
3. Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness if desired.
4. Serve: Serve hot from the baking dish, enjoying the creamy, cheesy pasta and the crunchy topping.

Conclusion

Mac & Cheese Casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting embrace in culinary form. The rich, velvety cheese sauce envelops each piece of macaroni, while the golden, crispy topping adds the perfect crunch. This detailed recipe ensures you can recreate this beloved classic in your own kitchen, bringing joy to those you serve. Whether for a weeknight dinner, a holiday side dish, or a potluck favorite, this Mac & Cheese Casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the nostalgic flavors and savor every bite of this timeless comfort food.