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The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese
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Indulge in The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese, a delightful comfort food that will have everyone asking for seconds. This dish features a rich, creamy cheese sauce made from a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyere, enveloping perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. Topped with a crispy panko-Parmesan mixture, this baked mac and cheese offers a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements its gooey interior. Whether it’s for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe is sure to impress with its comforting flavors and easy preparation.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz elbow macaroni
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 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 (or regular paprika)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. Cook elbow macaroni one minute shy of al dente; drain and toss with olive oil.
  3. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Gradually add milk and cream until smooth.
  4. Stir in seasonings and half the cheeses until melted; then mix in pasta.
  5. Layer half the mac and cheese in the baking dish, sprinkle remaining cheese, then top with the rest of the mixture.
  6. Mix panko crumbs with melted butter and paprika; sprinkle over mac and cheese.
  7. Bake for about 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://fastcookingtips.com/the-best-homemade-baked-mac-and-cheese/