Just Like California Pizza Kitchen Mac Cheese
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this "Just Like California Pizza Kitchen Mac & Cheese" recipe, a creamy and decadent take on the classic dish. Perfectly al dente elbow macaroni is enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce made with a trio of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses, bringing bold, rich flavors to every bite. The addition of a buttery panko breadcrumb topping, broiled to golden perfection, adds a satisfying crunch to this hearty favorite. With its silky texture, a hint of garlic, and a straightforward cooking process, this recipe is a must-try for cheese lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike. Ideal for family dinners, casual gatherings, or a comforting solo indulgence, this mac and cheese delivers gourmet restaurant quality right in your own kitchen!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 3 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1.5 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted, for topping)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to make a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring a smooth mixture. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the sauce thickens slightly (about 4-5 minutes).
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and Parmesan cheese, a handful at a time, until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
If adding a breadcrumb topping, preheat the broiler. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
Place the mac and cheese under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
841 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 53.2 g | 68% | |
| Saturated Fat | 33.1 g | 166% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 155 mg | 52% | |
| Sodium | 980 mg | 43% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 59.2 g | 22% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.5 g | 9% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.6 g | ||
| Protein | 31.5 g | 63% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.0 mcg | 10% | |
| Calcium | 707 mg | 54% | |
| Iron | 2.5 mg | 14% | |
| Potassium | 304 mg | 6% | |
*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.
