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Ultra Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy baked mac and cheese recipe with a golden brown crust in a white ramekin.
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A fool-proof recipe for ultra-creamy baked mac and cheese that is perfect for comfort food lovers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt 1/2 cup butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat. Stir in the cheddar cheese and Gruyere cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
  7. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
  8. Pour the macaroni and cheese into the prepared baking dish.
  9. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
  11. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
  • You can substitute other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for a different flavor profile.
  • To make this a vegan mac and cheese, use plant-based butter, milk, and cheese alternatives.
  • For a high-protein version, add cooked chicken or beans to the mixture.
  • This recipe can be adapted for the Instant Pot for a quicker stovetop version.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cutcooktaste.com/mac-and-cheese-recipe-foolproof-creamy/