Bella's Creamy and Cheesy Mac and Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Bella's creamy and cheesy mac and cheese. This homemade recipe is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night at home. Made with a blend of gooey cheeses and cooked to perfection, it's sure to please both kids and adults alike. Serve with a side of crispy garlic bread for a complete meal that will leave everyone feeling satisfied.

Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden, stirring constantly.
4. Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure to remove any lumps of flour. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and comes to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
6. Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the seasonings to your taste.
7. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until well coated. Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish.
8. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
11. Serve hot and enjoy!

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