New Orleans Baked Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 1 pound macaroni
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons chopped scallions, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes or until the mixture forms a smooth paste.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until it thickens.
5. Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
7. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
8. Bake the mac and cheese in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
9. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.