1. Prepare the Pasta:
- Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Melt butter: In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add flour: Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add milk and cream: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Season and cheese: Add salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Incorporate egg: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the beaten egg until well combined.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Mix pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated.
4. Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer to baking dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish or a similarly sized casserole dish.
- Prepare topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and an optional 1/4 teaspoon paprika. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is bubbling.
5. Serve:
- Cool slightly: Let the baked mac & cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.
- Serve: Scoop out portions and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Baked Mac & Cheese:
- Cheese Blend: Use a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor. Sharp cheddar provides a strong cheese flavor, while mozzarella adds creaminess.
- Breadcrumb Topping: For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the mac & cheese up to a day in advance. Simply assemble the dish and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
This Classic Baked Mac & Cheese recipe is a comforting and delicious dish that’s sure to be a hit at any meal. With its creamy cheese sauce and crispy topping, it’s perfect for a family dinner, potluck, or as a satisfying side dish. Enjoy this timeless favorite with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal!