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- 2 cups elbow macaroni - 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour - 4 cups whole milk - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional) - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional) - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional) - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping, optional)

Kid-Friendly Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Delight Mac & Cheese recipe! Creamy, cheesy, and kid-friendly, it's perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, this mac and cheese elevates the classic dish to delicious new heights. Follow our simple step-by-step instructions for a golden, bubbly topping that adds crunch. Discover the joy of homemade mac and cheese that brings everyone together at the table!
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Ingredients
  

8 ounces elbow macaroni

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

2 tablespoons melted butter (for breadcrumbs)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

        - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter.

          - Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously, to form a roux.

            - Gradually add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).

              - Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

                - Slowly add in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.

                  Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring to ensure all the pasta is well coated.

                    Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

                      Prepare Topping (optional): In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter (this adds crunch and flavor). Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the pasta.

                        Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

                          Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm, and enjoy your kid-friendly baked mac and cheese!

                            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 6 servings