Saucy Macaroni and Cheese
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Saucy Macaroni and Cheese recipe, a velvety masterpiece that combines perfectly cooked elbow macaroni with a luscious three-cheese blend of sharp cheddar, creamy mozzarella, and nutty Parmesan. The rich, homemade cheese sauce is elevated with a hint of Dijon mustard and paprika, delivering layers of bold, savory flavors. Whether you enjoy it creamy straight from the stovetop or baked to golden perfection with a crispy panko breadcrumb topping, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings. Quick to prepare in just 45 minutes and serving six, this is the ultimate macaroni and cheese recipe for those who crave indulgence and versatility.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 400 grams elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 0.5 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 0.5 cups panko breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted, for topping)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 3–4 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until smooth and melted.
Stir in the Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until fully coated.
If desired, transfer the macaroni and cheese to a greased baking dish. For a crispy topping, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top.
Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 15 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crunchy.
Serve immediately and enjoy your saucy macaroni and cheese!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
838 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 48.7 g | 62% | |
| Saturated Fat | 29.7 g | 148% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 143 mg | 48% | |
| Sodium | 960 mg | 42% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 68.7 g | 25% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.9 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.4 g | ||
| Protein | 30.6 g | 61% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.7 mcg | 8% | |
| Calcium | 635 mg | 49% | |
| Iron | 2.6 mg | 14% | |
| Potassium | 258 mg | 5% | |
*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.
