Description
Comforting mac and cheese delivers pure cheesy bliss with layers of rich, melted cheddar and smooth cream sauce. Classic American comfort food promises delightful indulgence for hungry souls craving ultimate pasta satisfaction.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins and Dairy:
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups whole milk
Pasta and Base:
- 16 ounces (454 grams) elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Seasonings and Extras:
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a spacious baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray.
- Cook the macaroni in generously salted boiling water until tender yet firm, typically 7-8 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Create a velvety roux by melting butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan, then whisk in flour until the mixture turns a delicate golden hue and releases a nutty aroma.
- Slowly stream in milk and cream, continuously whisking to prevent any lumps from forming, and simmer until the sauce reaches a luxurious, silky consistency.
- Infuse the sauce with depth by incorporating Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring until well combined.
- Remove the sauce from heat and gradually fold in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, creating a smooth, glossy mixture that coats the back of a spoon.
- Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring each pasta piece is lavishly enrobed.
- Prepare the crispy topping by combining panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, grated Parmesan, and a whisper of smoked paprika.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly, then generously sprinkle the seasoned breadcrumb mixture across the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top turns a golden-brown and the edges bubble enticingly.
- Allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, which helps the sauce set and intensifies the flavors.
Notes
- Ensure pasta is cooked al dente to prevent mushiness during baking, maintaining a perfect texture throughout the dish.
- Grate cheese fresh for maximum melting and flavor, avoiding pre-shredded options which contain anti-caking agents that can affect smoothness.
- Experiment with cheese combinations like gruyère or fontina for deeper, more complex flavor profiles while keeping the creamy consistency.
- Create gluten-free version by substituting regular flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend and using gluten-free breadcrumbs for topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 589
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 79 mg