Indulge in this creamy and cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese, a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni, cooked (or other tubular pasta)
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups panko crumbs
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a large 3 qt or 4 qt baking dish.
- Combine Cheeses: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses. Set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni one minute shy of al dente, then drain and drizzle with olive oil in a large bowl. Set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook until golden, about 1 minute. Gradually add the milk and cream, whisking until smooth. Cook until bubbly, then continue for an additional 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Sauce and Pasta: Stir in 4 cups of the cheese mixture until smooth. Add the cooked pasta, ensuring it’s fully coated with the cheese sauce.
- Layer in the Baking Dish: Transfer half of the mac and cheese to the prepared baking dish, sprinkle over half of the remaining cheese, add the rest of the mac and cheese, and top with the last of the cheese.
- Prepare the Topping: In a bowl, mix the panko crumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the mac and cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve: Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Baked Mac and Cheese!
Prep Time: 20 min | Cooking Time: 40 min | Total Time: 1 hr | Servings: 12
This baked mac and cheese is sure to be a hit with family and friends, featuring a creamy interior and a crispy topping!