Introduction
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that everyone loves. It's creamy, cheesy, and perfect for a cozy night in. This homemade mac and cheese recipe is easy to make and tastes much better than the store-bought version. Plus, it’s a great dish to make for a family dinner or a potluck party.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni- 4 tablespoons butter- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour- 2 cups milk- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese- 1 teaspoon paprika- 1 teaspoon garlic powder- Salt and pepper to taste- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.2. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.3. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is bubbly and golden.5. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.6. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens.7. Add the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.8. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.9. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish.10. In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and chopped parsley.11. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the mac and cheese.12. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.13. Serve hot and enjoy!
Conclusion
This homemade macaroni and cheese recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. You can customize it by adding bacon, ham, or vegetables like broccoli or peas. Plus, it's a great dish to make ahead of time and reheat for leftovers. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out!
