Ultimate Baked Elbow Macaroni in Creamy Cheddar Sauce

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for breadcrumbs)