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The Best Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe for Unforgettable Dinners

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This baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, featuring a creamy cheese sauce and a crispy topping that will delight your family. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it’s a dish that creates lasting memories around the table.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack or Colby cheese, grated
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside.
  3. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until smooth.
  4. Gradually whisk in 4 cups of whole milk, stirring vigorously to avoid lumps. Once incorporated, add 1 cup of heavy cream and cook until the sauce thickens and simmers, about 5-8 minutes.
  5. Remove the pot from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of dry mustard, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Add the grated cheeses in handfuls, stirring until melted and smooth.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until coated.
  7. Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Optionally, sprinkle 1/2 cup of extra cheese in the middle layer, then spoon the remaining pasta mixture on top.
  8. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle over the top. Optionally, add another 1/4 cup of cheese on top of the breadcrumbs.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  10. Let the mac and cheese rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: For best results, don't overcook the pasta. Grate your own cheese for a smoother sauce, and keep the sauce warm while adding cheese to prevent it from seizing. You can customize with meats or veggies, and make ahead for convenience.

Find it online: https://mamablueberry.com/the-best-baked-mac-cheese-recipe-for-unforgettable-dinners/