Homemade Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients

For the macaroni:

• 8 ounces (about 2 cups) elbow macaroni
• Salt (for boiling pasta)

For the cheese sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1 cup Gruyère cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

For the topping:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Macaroni:

   1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
   2. Drain the macaroni and set aside.

2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

   1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. The mixture should be smooth and bubbly.
   2. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to thicken and comes to a gentle simmer, about 5-7 minutes.
   3. Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
   4. Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

3. Combine the Macaroni and Cheese Sauce:

   1. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

4. Prepare the Topping:

   1. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and dried parsley if using. The mixture should be crumbly.

5. Assemble and Bake:

   1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   2. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish or a similar sized casserole dish.
   3. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
   4. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbly.

6. Serve:

   1. Allow the macaroni and cheese to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the cheese sauce set and makes for easier serving.
   2. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of homemade macaroni and cheese on its own or as a side dish to your favorite main courses.