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Creamy Mac and Cheese

This homemade mac and cheese recipe delivers seriously creamy, cheesy comfort food that takes minimal effort and uses quality ingredients for a rich flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • pinch nutmeg
For the Topping (Optional)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to boil and add macaroni. Cook for 1 minute less than package directions to achieve al dente.
  2. Drain the pasta but do not rinse. Return to the pot and set aside.
Making the Cheese Sauce
  1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat without browning it.
  2. Add flour, whisking constantly for 2-3 minutes until it resembles wet sand.
  3. Slowly pour in milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens.
  4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, ensuring the sauce coats the back of a spoon.
  5. Remove from heat and gradually add shredded cheeses, stirring until fully melted.
  6. Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
  1. Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and stir gently to coat.
  2. You can serve immediately, or transfer to a greased baking dish for baking.
Baking for Extra Deliciousness
  1. Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan and sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
  2. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
  3. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

This mac and cheese can be made stovetop without baking for a creamier texture. Optional additions include cooked bacon, diced ham, or vegetables like peas or broccoli. Can also be made in a crockpot.