Rich Mac and Cheese
The ultimate comfort food with a creamy, cheesy texture and a crispy topping that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 340 g elbow macaroni Tender and perfectly shaped to hold all that creamy goodness.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter Adding a rich depth of flavor, perfectly balanced with the cheese.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Helping to thicken the sauce to that irresistible, velvety consistency.
- 3 cups whole milk Creamy milk that enriches the sauce, making it luxuriously smooth.
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded For that robust flavor that defines classic mac and cheese.
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded Soft and slightly sweet, adding complexity to this cheesy blend.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated The finishing touch, giving your dish a sharp, nutty flavor.
- 113 g cream cheese, cubed Making the mac and cheese extra creamy and luscious.
- 1 tsp salt Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper A touch of spice to elevate the dish.
- 1/2 tsp paprika Adding warmth and a hint of smokiness to the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs Creating a crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for topping) Adding richness to the breadcrumbs for an irresistible crunch.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional) For a fresh, vibrant garnish that adds color and flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 2-quart baking dish.
- Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until it’s al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Melt 4 tbsp of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk it in, cooking for 1–2 minutes until bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
- Reduce heat to low and add cream cheese, cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan to the saucepan. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Assembly and Baking
- Fold in the cooked macaroni carefully to coat in the sauce.
- Transfer the mac and cheese into the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, toss the breadcrumbs with 2 tbsp of melted butter and sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
Make sure to cook the macaroni al dente. Stir the cheese in gradually for a smooth sauce. Experiment with different cheeses for a deeper flavor.