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Mac and Cheese Casserole 7/12

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Mac and Cheese Casserole

A warm and gooey macaroni and cheese casserole is the epitome of Southern comfort. This casserole recipe is perfect for sharing and guaranteed to impress your guests. Feel free to deviate from elbow macaroni and use up the open boxes of pasta in the back of your pantry! 

Ingredients (serves 8-10 people):

  • 16 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 tsp salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper, or to taste
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp ground mustard
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 16 oz)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (about 8 oz)
  • Optional toppings: breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or additional shredded cheese

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Cook pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 min. to make a roux.
  4. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens and bubbles.
  5. Add the salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground mustard to the sauce, stirring until well combined.
  6. Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
  7. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until it is evenly coated.
  8. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  9. Sprinkle the top of the casserole with breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or shredded cheese for a crisp topping.
  10. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 min.
  11. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 min. or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
  12. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve the casserole warm, and enjoy!

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