Parmesan Macaroni and Cheese
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Parmesan Macaroni and Cheese recipe, a gourmet twist on a beloved classic. Featuring tender elbow macaroni wrapped in a velvety sauce made from a luxurious blend of Parmesan and sharp cheddar cheeses, this dish is both creamy and irresistibly flavorful. The addition of heavy cream enhances its richness, while a hint of garlic powder elevates its aroma to perfection. Topped with golden, crispy bread crumbs toasted under the broiler, this casserole-style macaroni and cheese is perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s an easy yet sophisticated choice for anyone craving cheesy goodness.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to 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 and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes golden in color and has a slightly nutty aroma.
Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.
Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in the grated Parmesan and cheddar cheeses, allowing each handful to melt completely before adding the next. Once smooth, season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
Preheat your broiler to high. Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and olive oil. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
Place the baking dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
4738 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 261.6 g | 335% | |
| Saturated Fat | 149.2 g | 746% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 732 mg | 244% | |
| Sodium | 6962 mg | 303% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 401.1 g | 146% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.2 g | 65% | |
| Total Sugars | 55.9 g | ||
| Protein | 182.7 g | 365% | |
| Vitamin D | 8.7 mcg | 43% | |
| Calcium | 3687 mg | 284% | |
| Iron | 20.5 mg | 114% | |
| Potassium | 1500 mg | 32% | |
*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.
