Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

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### **Instructions:**

1. **Cook the Pasta:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

2. **Make the Cheese Sauce:**
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste (this is your roux). Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture, whisking frequently, until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

3. **Add the Cheeses:**
Once the sauce is thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.

4. **Combine Pasta and Sauce:**
Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

5. **Assemble for Baking:**
Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the macaroni. Drizzle melted butter over the breadcrumbs for an extra crispy, golden finish.

6. **Bake and Serve:**
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. If you’re using breadcrumbs, they should be nicely toasted. Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

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### **Serving Suggestions:**

– **As a Side Dish:** This creamy baked mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a fresh salad.
– **Add-ins:** Feel free to customize your mac and cheese by adding extras like crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli. You can even switch up the cheeses for a unique twist — gouda, gruyère, or even blue cheese would work great!
– **Spice it Up:** For a spicy kick, add a little bit of hot sauce, chili flakes, or diced jalapeños to the sauce.

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### **Why This Mac and Cheese Is So Irresistible:**

What sets this **Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese** apart is its perfect balance of creamy and cheesy. The sauce is rich and velvety, made from scratch without any processed cheese powder. The three-cheese blend brings depth and a satisfying gooeyness, while the crispy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch. It’s comfort food at its finest — indulgent, satisfying, and utterly delicious.

And the best part? You can easily make this recipe your own! Add whatever you like, from your favorite cheeses to savory mix-ins or even a bit of heat. This baked mac and cheese is as versatile as it is tasty.

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### **Final Thoughts:**

**Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese** is the kind of dish that brings people together, creating moments of joy with every bite. It’s the ultimate comfort food — rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday meal or enjoying it on a cozy evening in, this mac and cheese will never disappoint.

So next time you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and utterly satisfying, give this recipe a try. It’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen — and a crowd favorite every time you serve it!

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Need more variations or a healthier twist? Let me know — I’d be happy to help! 🧀🍝