Creamy Macaroni and Cheese with Herb Topping

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Creamy Macaroni and Cheese with Herb Topping is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. Rich, cheesy, and utterly satisfying, this dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. With a crispy herb topping that adds an extra layer of flavor, you’ll find yourself going back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy macaroni and cheese is not only easy to make, but it also brings a warmth that feels like a hug in a bowl. The combination of gooey cheese and crunchy breadcrumbs makes every bite irresistible.

• Quick and easy to prepare.
• Comforting and satisfying for all ages.
• Versatile for various dietary preferences.
• Can be customized with your favorite add-ins.
• Perfect for meal prep or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or your choice of herb)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

How to Make Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until golden.
4. Gradually pour in the whole milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
6. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
7. Transfer the macaroni and cheese into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the chopped parsley and olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
10. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for the Best Results

• For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or more cheese to the sauce.
• Make sure to cook the roux long enough to eliminate the raw flour taste.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as gouda or fontina, for a unique flavor.
• If you prefer a bit of spice, add a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce.

Easy Variations

• Add cooked bacon or ham for a savory twist.
• Mix in steamed broccoli or spinach for a veggie boost.
• Swap out elbow macaroni for shells or any pasta shape you prefer.
• Top with crushed potato chips instead of breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

What to Serve With It

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing.
• Grilled vegetables for a fresh side.
• Roasted chicken thighs for a heartier meal.
• Garlic bread for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Storage and Reheating

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Leftover creamy macaroni and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

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