1. Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain well and set aside. It’s important not to overcook the pasta since it will continue to cook in the oven.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large pot, melt the 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the warm milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk the mixture until it thickens and starts to bubble, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheese until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with mustard powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Dish:
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
5. Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried parsley until well combined.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
6. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- If desired, you can broil the top for 1-2 minutes at the end to achieve an extra crispy topping. Watch it closely to prevent burning.
7. Serve:
- Let the baked mac and cheese sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Conclusion:
This homemade baked mac and cheese recipe is the epitome of comfort food, offering a delightful mix of creamy, cheesy goodness and a satisfying crunch. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with different cheeses or added ingredients like cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or diced jalapeños for a personal touch. Perfect for any occasion, this baked mac and cheese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, bringing warmth and joy to your table. Enjoy the process of creating this beloved dish and the delicious results that follow.