Ultimate Creamy and Baked Mac and Chees

Ultimate Creamy and Baked Mac and Cheese There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of creamy, cheesy mac and cheese. This recipe offers the best of both worlds: a velvety stovetop version and a golden, crispy baked version. Perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Customize it with your favorite cheeses or add-ins for a personal touch! Ingredients 16 oz (450g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice 4 tbsp (60g) unsalted butter 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour 3 cups (720ml) whole milk, warmed 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess) 2 1/2 cups (250g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese 1 cup (100g) shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 tsp garlic powder 1/2 tsp onion powder 1/2 tsp paprika (optional) Salt and pepper to taste 1/2 cup (50g) breadcrumbs (for baked version) 1/4 cup (25g) additional Parmesan (for baked version) Instructions Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Add heavy cream (if using) and continue whisking until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes). Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until fully coated. Serve immediately for a creamy texture. Baked Mac and Cheese Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Follow steps 1-4 for the creamy stovetop version. Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs and additional Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Cooking Tips Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. For a richer flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or mustard powder to the cheese sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency. How to Serve Serve the creamy stovetop version as a quick, comforting meal. For the baked version, pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete dinner. Both versions are perfect for potlucks or holiday gatherings!