Baked Macaroni and Cheese

1.Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2.Cook the macaroni noodles in a large pot of boiling water with salt until al dente, according to the package instructions.

3.While the noodles are cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

4.Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.

5.Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

6.Cook the sauce until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.

7.Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

8.Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

9.Drain the cooked macaroni noodles and combine them with the cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. Stir until the noodles are evenly coated.

10.Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a lightly greased baking dish.

11.In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.

12.Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

13.Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.