Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients:
– 1 pound elbow macaroni
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 4 cups whole milk
– 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook the roux, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes until it turns golden brown.
4. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika, if desired.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
7. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
11. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.

Enjoy your comforting and cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese with your loved ones!