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Baked Macaroni and Cheese

A heartwarming dish capturing the essence of comfort food, featuring creamy cheese and a crunchy topping that guarantees smiles at the dinner table.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 lbs Cavatappi Pasta Twisted noodles perfect for holding cheese sauce.
  • 8 cups Chicken Broth Flavorful base to enhance the taste.
  • 1 tsp Chicken Bouillon Paste Adds depth to the dish.
  • 2 tbsp Salted Butter Essential for creamy texture.
  • 16 oz Mozzarella Cheese Melts beautifully for gooey consistency.
  • 8 oz Sharp Cheddar Adds bold flavor.
  • 8 oz Colby Jack Offers a tangy twist.
  • 6 oz Gruyere Cheese Delivers a nutty flavor.
  • 24 oz Evaporated Milk Adds creaminess.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream For an ultra-rich sauce.
  • 1 tbsp Yellow Mustard Adds tanginess.
  • 1.5 tsp Garlic Powder Enhances flavor.
  • 1.5 tsp Onion Powder Complements the garlic.
  • 1.5 tsp Seasoned Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Adds warmth.
  • 0.5 tsp Cayenne Pepper Adjust for desired heat.
  • 4 oz Cream Cheese Adds extra creaminess.
  • 0.25 cup Sour Cream Adds tanginess.
  • 2 large Eggs Helps bind the mixture.
  • 6-8 slices Mozzarella Cheese For topping.
  • 3 tbsp Salted Butter For greasing the baking dish.
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Provides crunchy texture.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and grease a 9x13 pan with 2 tbsp of softened butter.
  2. Shred all the cheeses and reserve 4 oz of cheddar cheese for topping later.
Cooking
  1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook until al dente.
  2. Drain the pasta and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and black pepper, then mix in 2 tbsp of butter and 1 tsp of chicken bouillon until well combined.
  3. In the same pot, pour in the evaporated milk and heavy cream over medium heat until warmed through.
  4. Add all the shredded cheese (except the reserved cheddar), mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and cream cheese. Stir until fully combined.
  5. Remove from heat and fold in the sour cream. Mix well, then add the seasoned pasta noodles along with the eggs, mixing until blended.
  6. Transfer half of the macaroni and cheese to the greased baking pan. Layer the mozzarella cheese slices, then add the remaining macaroni and cheese on top.
  7. Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top.
  8. In a skillet, melt 3 tbsp of butter and add the panko breadcrumbs, tossing until golden brown. Distribute evenly over the macaroni.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbling and golden brown. Broil for a few minutes for a crispy finish, then cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Experiment with cheese selections, make ahead by assembling early, and consider adding diced jalapeños for added heat. Mix in sautéed vegetables for a healthier twist.