Description
This creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipe features a rich, velvety cheese sauce, crispy golden topping, and tender elbow macaroni baked to perfection. It’s the ultimate comfort food and a crowd-pleasing side or main dish. Perfect for holidays, weeknight dinners, or potlucks.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
1. Boil the elbow macaroni until just al dente, drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes.
3. Slowly whisk in milk and cream until the mixture thickens.
4. Stir in all cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
5. Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
6. Pour into a greased baking dish and smooth the top.
7. Top with breadcrumbs and a bit more cheese if desired.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
9. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
This dish can be assembled ahead and refrigerated before baking.
Always use freshly grated cheese for the best melting texture.
If reheating, add a splash of milk to bring back creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 90mg