Family Favorite Macaroni and Cheese
Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting, this Family Favorite Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate homemade classic that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds. Made with a rich, velvety sauce featuring sharp cheddar, gooey gruyere, and nutty parmesan, this baked mac and cheese offers an indulgent blend of flavors in every bite. A hint of Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang, while an optional panko breadcrumb topping delivers a perfectly crispy finish. Ready in under an hour with just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is ideal for cozy family dinners, holiday feasts, or any time you crave comfort food. Garnish with a dash of paprika for a pop of color and serve it piping hot for maximum deliciousness!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1.5 cups gruyere cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cups parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp ground black pepper
- 0.5 tsp paprika (optional, for garnish)
- 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or nonstick spray.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is light golden and bubbly.
Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until the mixture starts to thicken.
Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar, gruyere, and grated parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Stir in the Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce in the saucepan and stir until the pasta is well-coated.
Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. If using panko breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the top for added crunch.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
If desired, sprinkle paprika on top for garnish before serving. Serve hot and enjoy your family-favorite macaroni and cheese!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
5905 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 337.9 g | 433% | |
| Saturated Fat | 199.7 g | 998% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1032 mg | 344% | |
| Sodium | 7397 mg | 322% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 457.4 g | 166% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.0 g | 71% | |
| Total Sugars | 53.6 g | ||
| Protein | 245.7 g | 491% | |
| Vitamin D | 10.8 mcg | 54% | |
| Calcium | 5403 mg | 416% | |
| Iron | 21.9 mg | 122% | |
| Potassium | 1715 mg | 36% | |
*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.
