Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Rich and Cheesy Delight

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 2 teaspoon paprika
• to taste Salt and pepper
• 1 2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, stirring for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is golden and fragrant. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Once the mixture thickens, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Remove the pot from heat and gradually mix in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until fully combined.
7. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese for a crunchy topping.
9. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.