Smoked Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 2 cups macaroni
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour, garlic powder, and smoked paprika and stir until combined. Gradually add the milk and whisk until smooth.
4. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble. Reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the cooked macaroni, stirring until the macaroni is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
6. Pour the macaroni and cheese into an oven-safe baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Interesting Facts

• Mac and cheese is a traditional comfort food in the United States.
• Smoked paprika adds a delicious smoky flavor to the mac and cheese.
• The dish can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.