10 Easy Casseroles for a Last-Minute Dinner Party

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Mac and Cheese Casserole

Baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta with a rich, creamy cheese sauce and a golden, crispy topping. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it as a main dish or a side alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a perfectly balanced meal!

Ingredients (for 6-8 servings):

• 1 lb elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, stirring constantly for 1-2 min. until golden and smooth.
3. Gradually add the warm milk and heavy cream, whisking to avoid lumps. Cook for 5-7 min., stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
4. Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low and gradually add 2½ cups of cheddar cheese and all the Gruyère, stirring until melted and smooth.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing until the pasta is evenly coated.
7. Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly.
8. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
9. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan (if using). Mix well, then sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.
10. Bake uncovered for 20-25 min., or until the top is golden and bubbly.
11. Allow the casserole to cool for 5 min. before serving.