Making your Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is a simple process. Follow these steps to create a dish that everyone will love:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.
4. Add Milk: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season the Sauce: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper.
6. Add Cheeses: Remove the saucepan from heat and add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly until all the pasta is coated.
8. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
9. Prepare Topping (Optional): If using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
10. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
11. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

By following these straightforward steps, you’ll create a delicious Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese that delights everyone at the table!