Layered Macaroni and Cheese
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this decadent Layered Macaroni and Cheese recipe, a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness baked to golden perfection. This dish features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce made from a trio of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Unlike traditional recipes, this version is uniquely layered, ensuring every bite delivers a luscious combination of pasta and melty cheese. Topped with a bubbly crust and a hint of paprika for added flair, this baked masterpiece is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions. Ready in just under an hour, this layered macaroni and cheese will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 450 grams elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste.
Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in 2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir until the cheeses have completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Spread a layer of the cooked macaroni in the greased baking dish, then pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the pasta. Use a spoon or spatula to evenly spread the sauce.
Add another layer of macaroni, followed by more cheese sauce. Repeat the process until all the macaroni and cheese sauce are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese sauce on top.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. If desired, dust with paprika for added color and flavor.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy, layered macaroni and cheese!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
5831 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 339.8 g | 436% | |
| Saturated Fat | 205.7 g | 1028% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1068 mg | 356% | |
| Sodium | 7655 mg | 333% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 418.0 g | 152% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.9 g | 64% | |
| Total Sugars | 55.5 g | ||
| Protein | 255.2 g | 510% | |
| Vitamin D | 9.9 mcg | 49% | |
| Calcium | 5803 mg | 446% | |
| Iron | 21.8 mg | 121% | |
| Potassium | 1695 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.
