Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese. This deliciously cheesy dish features a creamy blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyere, delivering a rich flavor profile that will satisfy any cheese lover. Topped with a crispy Panko-Parmesan crust, every bite is an irresistible combination of textures. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this mac and cheese is not only kid-friendly but also easy to prepare for cooks of all skill levels. Elevate your dining experience with this classic recipe that’s sure to become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 oz elbow macaroni (or other tubular pasta)
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 2 cups Gruyere cheese (shredded)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups panko crumbs
- 4 tbsp butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a large baking dish.
- Cook the pasta until just under al dente, drain, and drizzle with olive oil.
- In a deep saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour for about a minute.
- Gradually add milk and cream, whisking until smooth; season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in shredded cheeses until melted and creamy.
- Combine pasta with the cheese sauce until fully coated.
- Layer half the mixture in the baking dish, top with remaining cheese, then layer on the rest of the mac and cheese.
- Mix panko crumbs, melted butter, Parmesan, and paprika; sprinkle over the top.
- Bake for about 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 85mg