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### Instructions
**1. Cook the Pasta:**
Start by cooking the macaroni according to the package instructions. Cook it just until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
**2. Make the Cheese Sauce:**
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously to create a roux (a thick paste). Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t brown, to get rid of the raw flour taste.
Next, slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens and starts to bubble, about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Now, add the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese into the sauce. Stir until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper to suit your taste.
**3. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:**
Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.
**4. Prepare the Topping:**
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Stir to coat the breadcrumbs evenly in butter. This will create a crunchy topping when baked.
**5. Assemble the Dish:**
Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and then sprinkle the breadcrumb topping over the pasta. Make sure to cover the entire surface with a generous layer of breadcrumbs to get that perfect crispy crust.
**6. Bake the Mac & Cheese:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the mac and cheese for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If you prefer an extra crispy topping, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
**7. Let It Cool and Serve:**
Once baked, remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set slightly, making it easier to scoop and serve.
**8. Garnish and Enjoy:**
For an extra touch, you can garnish your mac and cheese with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the richness of the dish. Serve it warm, and watch it disappear in no time!
### Tips for the Ultimate Baked Mac & Cheese
1. **Use a Variety of Cheeses:**
For the creamiest and most flavorful sauce, use a blend of cheeses. While sharp cheddar is a must for its bold flavor, mozzarella provides creaminess, and Parmesan adds a savory, nutty note. Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, fontina, or Monterey Jack for even more depth.
2. **Don’t Overcook the Pasta:**
Since the pasta will bake in the oven, make sure to cook it just until al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy once it’s baked with the cheese sauce, so it’s better to slightly undercook it than overcook.
3. **Add a Crunchy Topping:**
For the perfect contrast to the creamy pasta, a crispy topping is essential. Panko breadcrumbs are the best option for achieving that golden, crunchy layer. You can also add some herbs, spices, or grated cheese to the topping for extra flavor.
4. **Make It Spicy:**
If you love a little heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or chopped jalapeños to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
5. **Make It Ahead of Time:**
This dish is great for making ahead. You can assemble the mac and cheese, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply add the topping and bake as directed. It’s a perfect make-ahead dish for busy days.
### Why You Need This Ultimate Baked Mac & Cheese in Your Life
The **Ultimate Baked Mac & Cheese** is the perfect comfort food that combines rich, velvety cheese sauce with tender pasta and a perfectly crispy topping. It’s an indulgent, satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just craving something cheesy, this baked mac and cheese will hit the spot every time.
### Conclusion
With its creamy cheese sauce, gooey pasta, and crispy breadcrumb topping, the **Ultimate Baked Mac & Cheese** is everything you want in a comfort dish and more. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, a family dinner, or just because, this recipe will undoubtedly become a staple in your recipe collection. So, get ready to dig into the ultimate cheesy goodness—because this mac and cheese is truly next level. Enjoy!
