Craving the perfect comfort food? Look no further! This Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe from The Novice Chef Blog is a creamy, cheesy delight that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a dish that’s both rich in flavor and texture.
Ingredients for Mac and Cheese Casserole
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp ground mustard
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions for Mac and Cheese Casserole
- Cook the Pasta
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9Ă—13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Topping
- In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
- Bake the Casserole
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and crunchy mac and cheese casserole!
Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese Casserole
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and creates a smoother sauce than pre-shredded cheese.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Customize the Cheese Blend: Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses for different flavors. Gouda, Gruyère, and fontina are great options.
FAQ for Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes and then bake as directed.
- Can I freeze mac and cheese casserole?
- Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
- What can I add to the mac and cheese for extra flavor?
- You can add cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions for extra flavor. You can also mix in vegetables like broccoli or peas.
Why You’ll Love This Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of three cheeses makes this casserole incredibly creamy and flavorful.
- Crunchy Topping: The panko breadcrumb topping adds a perfect crunch to contrast the creamy pasta.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe easy to prepare for any occasion.
Final Thoughts on Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe
This Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you crave a cheesy, creamy dish. Follow this recipe to create a delicious casserole that everyone will love. Enjoy!