Cozy Cheesy Comfort Mac Bake

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Cozy Cheesy Comfort Mac Bake! This delicious dish features creamy layers of sharp cheddar, perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping that delivers a satisfying texture. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, it’s easy to prepare with just a few wholesome ingredients. Elevate your dining experience with tasty sides or mix in your favorite veggies for a personalized touch. Enjoy a warm, cheesy hug in every bite!

Print Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni

4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons butter

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 cups milk

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.

Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Gradually whisk in the milk, then stir in the Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to heat but do not boil.

Once the milk mixture is warm, stir in the sharp cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese until completely melted and smooth.

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

In a separate small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the remaining Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 6