Indulge in the comforting decadence of Dunbar Macaroni and Cheese—a creamy, baked classic elevated with a golden, buttery breadcrumb topping. This recipe features tender elbow macaroni coated in a luscious homemade cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and a touch of ground mustard for subtle tanginess. A crispy layer of panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese adds irresistible texture, perfectly balancing the velvety richness. Ready in under an hour, this family-friendly dish is ideal as a hearty main course or a crowd-pleasing side. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings, this mac and cheese brings both comfort and elegance to your table.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps remain. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sharp cheddar cheese and cream cheese. Mix until completely melted and smooth.
Season the cheese sauce with salt, ground black pepper, and ground mustard powder. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing well to ensure all the macaroni is coated.
Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and drizzle it over the breadcrumb topping.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Dunbar Macaroni and Cheese!
Calories |
5762 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 373.9 g | 479% | |
| Saturated Fat | 222.3 g | 1112% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1106 mg | 369% | |
| Sodium | 7004 mg | 305% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 376.7 g | 137% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.1 g | 54% | |
| Total Sugars | 55.6 g | ||
| Protein | 218.7 g | 437% | |
| Vitamin D | 10.5 mcg | 52% | |
| Calcium | 4714 mg | 363% | |
| Iron | 19.5 mg | 108% | |
| Potassium | 1797 mg | 38% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.