CREAMY BAKED MAC AND CHEESE

2. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook it 1-2 minutes less than the package directions—it should be slightly firm because it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant.
3. Gradually add the warm milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep cooking until the sauce thickens—about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Remove from heat and fold in all the shredded cheese, saving a small handful for topping. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce, mixing until every piece is coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

5. Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan, and paprika. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.

6. Assemble the Dish

1. Pour the cheesy pasta into the prepared baking dish.
2. Sprinkle the reserved cheese evenly on top.
3. Add the breadcrumb mixture for a golden, crispy finish.

7. Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. If you like an extra-crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly for the perfect creamy bite. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for the Creamiest Mac and Cheese

• Cheese choice matters: Sharp cheddar gives flavor, Gruyère adds smooth meltiness. Mix cheeses for depth.
• Warm your milk: Adding cold milk to the roux can create lumps.
• Make ahead: Assemble the mac and cheese a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when needed. Just add 5 extra minutes to the baking time.
• Extra creamy: Stir in a little cream cheese or heavy cream into the sauce for indulgence.

Final Thoughts

Creamy baked mac and cheese is more than a side dish—it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that satisfies every craving for cheesy goodness. With a rich, velvety interior and a perfectly crunchy top, this homemade version beats store-bought every time.

If you want, I can also write a version with a secret ingredient that makes it ultra-creamy and restaurant-quality, perfect for impressing guests. Do you want me to do that?