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The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

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This baked mac and cheese features sharp cheddar and Gruyere combined with a crunchy panko topping, offering a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz elbow macaroni, cooked
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 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

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheese.
  3. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, but one minute shy of al dente. Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  4. Drizzle the pasta with olive oil, stirring to coat, and set aside to cool.
  5. In a deep saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly and golden.
  6. Gradually add warmed milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Cook until bubbles appear, about 2 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  7. Stir in 2 cups of the cheese mixture, whisking until melted and smooth. Add the remaining cheese and whisk until creamy.
  8. Fold the cooled pasta into the cheese sauce until fully coated.
  9. Pour half of the macaroni and cheese mixture into the baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese, then add the rest of the mac and cheese mixture.
  10. In a small bowl, mix panko crumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
  11. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Make sure your cheeses are at room temperature for optimal melting. Consider adding hot sauce or mustard powder for extra flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://us.recipesfood.org/best-homemade-baked-mac-and-cheese/

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