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Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

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Creamy and cheesy baked mac and cheese — a comfort food classic that’s baked to golden perfection.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 3 cups heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
  4. Gradually add the heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
  5. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  6. Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until smooth and melted.
  7. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and pour into the prepared baking dish.
  8. Top with breadcrumbs, if desired, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, mix in diced ham or crispy bacon bits.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier topping.
  • Substitute heavy cream with whole milk or a plant-based alternative for a lighter option.
  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 16 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg