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Adding fresh parsley as a garnish not only enhances the visual appeal of your Cheesy Delight Baked Mac & Cheese but also introduces a fresh, herbal note that balances the richness of the cheese. When selecting parsley, look for bright green leaves without any yellowing or wilting. Flat-leaf parsley is often preferred for its robust flavor, but curly parsley can also be used as a decorative touch. If you're looking for dietary alternatives, consider using fresh chives or basil for a unique twist.

Baked Mac and Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Cheesy Delight Baked Mac & Cheese recipe. This classic dish combines creamy, rich cheese with tender elbow macaroni, topped with a golden, crispy layer for added crunch. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Enjoy the nostalgia and warm flavors as you create a delightful meal that everyone will love. Discover the joy of making this beloved staple today!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz elbow macaroni

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or any cheese of your choice)

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's ready for baking.

    Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook as per the package instructions until al dente, typically around 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

      Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once the butter is bubbling, whisk in the all-purpose flour to form a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes until it reaches a light golden color.

        Incorporate the Milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens. This should take approximately 5-7 minutes.

          Flavor the Sauce: Once thickened, stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and season generously with salt and pepper. Remove the saucepan from heat, then gradually mix in the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

            Combine Pasta with Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and the cheese sauce. Stir thoroughly until the pasta is evenly coated with the delicious sauce.

              Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the olive oil and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with oil.

                Assemble and Bake: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over the top for that crispy finish.

                  Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

                    Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. For a touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Dig into this creamy and indulgent Baked Mac and Cheese!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | Serves 6-8

                        - Presentation Tips: To enhance the visual appeal, serve the mac and cheese directly from the baking dish in individual bowls, topped with extra parsley for a pop of color. Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal!