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Classic Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 128 reviews
  • Author: Victor
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

Classic Baked Mac and Cheese is a comforting and creamy casserole featuring al dente elbow macaroni blended with a rich cheese sauce made from cheddar and Gruyère cheeses. Topped with buttery panko breadcrumbs, this dish is baked until bubbly and golden, delivering a perfect balance of gooey cheese and crispy topping ideal for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Topping

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, usually about 6-7 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  2. Make the roux: In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to form a roux, cooking it for about 2 minutes without browning to remove the raw flour taste.
  3. Add liquids and thicken: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream. Continue to stir the mixture until it thickens into a creamy sauce, which should take around 5-7 minutes over medium heat.
  4. Flavor and cheese: Stir in 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and slowly add the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, stirring until completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well to ensure every piece is coated. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  6. Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, combine 1 cup panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter. Sprinkle this evenly over the macaroni and cheese in the baking dish.
  7. Bake the dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the mac and cheese uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
  8. Broil for crunch: For an extra crispy topping, broil the dish for 1 to 2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Notes

  • For a sharper flavor, substitute some cheddar cheese with extra Gruyère or add a bit of Parmesan.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for better melting texture.
  • Be careful while broiling; it can quickly go from golden to burnt.
  • Let the mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes after baking for easier serving.
  • To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: mac and cheese, baked macaroni and cheese, classic comfort food, cheese casserole, creamy mac and cheese

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Find it online: https://tastywithvictor.com/classic-baked-mac-and-cheese-recipe/