Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy and cheesy classic mac and cheese recipe. Made with a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Preheat the oven to 350℉ (175℃). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until smooth.
Gradually whisk in the warm milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Melt the remaining 1/4 cup of butter and toss with breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For a twist, try adding crispy bacon or diced jalapenos to the top of the mac and cheese before baking.Make sure to undercook the pasta slightly before combining with the cheese sauce to prevent it from becoming mushy.