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Homestyle Baked Macaroni and Cheese Delight is the epitome of comfort food, combining creamy cheese, tender pasta, and a crispy topping that leaves you wanting more. This beloved dish evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in, making it a staple for many households. In this article, we will explore the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to create this delightful recipe, along with some insights into its variations and the history behind this classic dish.

Homestyle Baked Macaroni and Cheese Delight

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Homestyle Baked Macaroni and Cheese Delight. Learn how to create a creamy and cheesy pasta dish topped with a crispy layer of breadcrumbs that your family will love. This article provides step-by-step instructions along with tips for achieving the perfect texture and flavor, as well as variations to suit any taste. Dive into the history of this classic dish and make it a cherished recipe in your home.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz elbow macaroni

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for an extra crunch)

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, lightly grease a 9x13 inch (or similar-sized) baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or a little butter to prevent sticking.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni, cooking it according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

      Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour, whisking constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in the whole milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and is creamy, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

        Add Seasonings and Cheese: To the thickened sauce, stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Lower the heat and gradually mix in the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Remove the sauce from heat.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently mix until the pasta is thoroughly coated in the creamy cheese.

            Prepare for Baking: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top, and finish with an even layer of panko breadcrumbs. For an extra crunchy topping, consider drizzling a little melted butter over the breadcrumbs before baking.

              Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and bubbly.

                Garnish and Serve: Once your mac and cheese has baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a burst of color and freshness.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 55 mins | Serves 6-8