Easy Mac and Cheese Recipe for Comforting Flavor

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat and add the elbow macaroni, cooking until al dente, which takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
3. Gradually pour in the milk while continuously whisking, and cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika, mixing until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring well to combine everything evenly.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish.
7. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly, then let it cool for a few minutes before serving.