Description
Experience the ultimate comfort food with The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden, crispy panko crust, this mac and cheese is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday feasts. The combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyere takes this classic dish to the next level of cheesy perfection.
Ingredients
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SEO-Optimized Description
Experience the ultimate comfort food with The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden, crispy panko crust, this mac and cheese is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday feasts. The combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyere takes this classic dish to the next level of cheesy perfection.
Ingredients
Mac and Cheese
- 16 oz elbow macaroni (or other tubular pasta), cooked
- 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
Panko Topping
- 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
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 3-quart or 4-quart baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Cook Pasta
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, stopping one minute shy of al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside to cool.
3. Prepare Cheese Sauce
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbly and golden.
- Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until smooth. Let bubbles form and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper. Slowly add 2 cups of the cheese mixture, whisking until melted. Add the remaining cheese and whisk until thick and creamy.
4. Assemble the Dish
- Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
- Pour half of the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the remaining shredded cheese, then layer the rest of the mac and cheese on top.
5. Add the Topping
- In a small bowl, combine panko crumbs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the mac and cheese.
6. Bake
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the mac and cheese is bubbling.
7. Serve
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this indulgent and delicious baked mac and cheese!
Notes
- Substitute Gruyere with Monterey Jack or Fontina for a different flavor profile.
- Add cooked bacon, lobster, or broccoli for a creative twist.
- For a spicier version, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce.
