A rich and creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipe that's perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Cook the macaroni in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.
Avoid overcooking the pasta as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat, then whisk in the flour, salt, and pepper to form a roux.
Cook the roux until it turns a light golden color for a nutty flavor.
Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
Warm the milk slightly before adding to prevent lumps.
Stir in the cheddar and parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
Add the cheese in small batches to ensure it melts evenly.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, then transfer to a baking dish.
Mix thoroughly to coat all the pasta with the sauce.
Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the macaroni.
For extra flavor, mix the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to set the cheese.
Serve warm and enjoy your creamy baked macaroni and cheese.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
