Mac & Cheese Casserole

Mac & Cheese Casserole

Introduction

Mac & Cheese Casserole is the epitome of comfort food. This dish combines the rich, creamy texture of classic macaroni and cheese with a golden, crunchy topping that makes it irresistible. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or as a side dish at a holiday feast, this casserole is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. The recipe below provides a detailed, step-by-step guide to creating the ultimate Mac & Cheese Casserole, ensuring a dish that is both delicious and visually appealing.

Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 2 cups half-and-half
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

For the Topping:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta:

1. Boil Water:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt is essential for adding flavor to the pasta itself.
2. Cook Macaroni:
   Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 7-8 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the pasta as it will continue to cook in the oven later.
3. Drain and Set Aside:
   Drain the cooked macaroni and set it aside. It’s important to ensure the pasta is well-drained to prevent excess water from affecting the sauce’s consistency.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

1. Melt Butter:
   In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Use a whisk to ensure the butter melts evenly without burning.
2. Make a Roux:
   Sprinkle the all-purpose flour into the melted butter, whisking constantly to form a smooth paste. Continue to cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes, or until it turns a light golden color. This step helps eliminate the raw flour taste and provides a base for the sauce.
3. Add Milk and Half-and-Half:
   Gradually whisk in the whole milk and half-and-half, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes. The combination of milk and half-and-half creates a rich and creamy base for the cheese sauce.
4. Incorporate Cheeses:
   Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese, one handful at a time. Stir constantly until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. The variety of cheeses adds depth of flavor and a luscious texture to the sauce.
5. Season the Sauce:
   Stir in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and Dijon mustard. These seasonings enhance the flavor of the cheese sauce, making it more complex and savory.
6. Combine with Pasta:
   Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well-coated with the creamy mixture. Ensure the macaroni is evenly distributed throughout the sauce for the best texture and flavor.

Assemble the Casserole:

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Transfer to Baking Dish:
   Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. This step ensures an even bake and a uniform layer of cheesy goodness.

Prepare the Topping:

1. Mix Topping Ingredients:
   In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and smoked paprika. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the butter and seasonings. The butter ensures the topping becomes crispy and golden when baked.
2. Add Topping:
   Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese. The topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.

Bake and Serve:

1. Bake:
   Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbling around the edges. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the casserole to prevent overbaking.
2. Cool Slightly:
   Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set slightly, making it easier to serve.
3. Garnish (Optional):
   If desired, sprinkle the top with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
4. Serve:
   Serve the Mac & Cheese Casserole hot, straight from the baking dish. Each spoonful offers a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy pasta and a crunchy, flavorful topping.

Conclusion

Mac & Cheese Casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting embrace in culinary form. The rich, velvety cheese sauce envelops each piece of macaroni, while the golden, crispy topping adds the perfect crunch. This recipe, with its detailed instructions, ensures that you can recreate this beloved classic in your own kitchen, bringing smiles to the faces of those you serve it to. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a holiday side dish, or a potluck favorite, this Mac & Cheese Casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the warm, nostalgic flavors of this homemade delight, and savor every bite of this timeless comfort food.