When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the nostalgia of mac and cheese. This recipe takes that childhood classic and elevates it — creamy, gooey cheese enveloping tender pasta, topped with a crisp breadcrumb crust that crackles with every bite.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk (preferably whole)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella, shredded
- ½ cup parmesan, grated
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions:
- Boil macaroni until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened.
- Add cheeses, stir until melted into a rich sauce.
- Combine the sauce with the pasta, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Transfer to a baking dish.
- Mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the top.
- Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Pro tip: Mix crushed crackers or fried onions into the topping for an extra crunch.
This mac and cheese is pure coziness — creamy at the center, golden at the top, and impossible to resist.
