Smooth Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this recipe for Smooth Creamy Macaroni and Cheese, a rich and velvety dish that’s perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions. Featuring the perfect trio of sharp cheddar, gruyere, and parmesan cheeses, this recipe creates a luscious cheese sauce that's elevated with a hint of Dijon mustard and a touch of smoky paprika. The tender elbow macaroni is coated in a silky homemade roux-based sauce made with whole milk and heavy cream, making every bite incredibly decadent and satisfying. Ready in just 45 minutes, this hearty dish serves six and is best enjoyed fresh for the creamiest results. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra cheese or fresh parsley for a finishing touch, and watch it become a family favorite!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup gruyere cheese, shredded
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux. Do not let it brown.
Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, ensuring the mixture is smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, gruyere cheese, and grated parmesan, one handful at a time. Allow each handful to fully melt before adding the next.
Once all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth, stir in the Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to ensure every piece is coated evenly.
Serve immediately for the creamiest results, garnished with an extra sprinkle of shredded cheese or fresh parsley if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
987 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 58.8 g | 75% | |
| Saturated Fat | 35.9 g | 180% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 167 mg | 56% | |
| Sodium | 1132 mg | 49% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 71.0 g | 26% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 9.5 g | ||
| Protein | 44.2 g | 88% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.8 mcg | 14% | |
| Calcium | 1059 mg | 81% | |
| Iron | 3.2 mg | 18% | |
| Potassium | 414 mg | 9% | |
*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.
