Baked Creamy Macaroni & Cheese is a staple food of comfort cuisine. From the Thanksgiving tablescape to the festiveness of Christmas, (or whichever holiday you celebrate) this is the season’s must-have dish. With it’s warm gooiness and just so crisp topping. How can you not indulge?

Ingredients:

• 16 ounces Ziti
• 3 tbsps unsalted butter
• 3 tbsps all-purpose flour
• 2½ cups whole milk
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• 2 tsp chicken bouillon
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 2 cups Colby Jack cheese, shredded
• 2 cups sharp cheddar, shredded
• 1 cup smoked Gouda, shredded

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375° F.

Cook the Ziti according to the package instructions; drain and set aside.

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, add flour and stir until a paste is formed; cook an additional 1 minute. Slowly add in milk ¼ cup at a time whisking constantly until 2½ cups have been added. Add in bullion, garlic powder, and pepper; whisk until combined.

Add in the cream cheese; whisk until combined. Add Colby Jack and 1 cup of cheddar 1 cup at a time; making sure cheese is melted in between each addition. Add the Gouda; whisk until cheeses are completely melted.

In a large mixing bowl, combine Ziti and 2 cups of the cheese sauce. Transfer mixture into a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Pour the remaining cheese evenly over the top with the remaining cup of cheddar cheese.

Bake until thoroughly heated, about 35 minutes.

For a crispy topping, set oven to a low broil and broil the mac and cheese until desired brownness is achieved.

cover images created by Michelle Vine Walters & Quiet Josephine