Baked Mac and Cheese | Teníye Local Market

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 2 cups whole milk (or 1 ½ cups milk + ½ cup heavy cream for extra richness)
• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt (more to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• ½ tsp onion powder (optional)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko, for crunch)
• 1 tbsp butter (for breadcrumbs, melted)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
• You can customize your mac and cheese with add-ins like cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even some cooked spinach for added flavor.
• For a spicier version, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
• For extra creaminess, use a combination of different cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda, or Monterey Jack.