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Close-up view of creamy baked mac and cheese with golden-brown crust on a white marble surface.

Creamy Baked Soul Food Mac And Cheese Perfection

A rich and creamy baked mac and cheese recipe that combines cheesy goodness with a crispy topping for ultimate comfort food.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Soul Food
Calories: 850
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook pasta until al dente, then drain.
  2. Make a roux by melting butter and stirring in flour for 2 minutes.
  3. Whisk in milk and cream, cook until thickened, then add spices and 3 cups cheese, stirring until smooth.
  4. Combine cheese sauce with pasta, transfer to a greased baking dish, top with remaining cheese, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly, then serve.

Notes

For extra crunch, add more breadcrumbs or Parmesan on top before baking.