Name: Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound elbow macaroni; 4 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 4 cups whole milk; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; Salt and pepper to taste

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Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time:

Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 30 min | Total Time: 45 min

how to make Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

1 pound elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until very al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
Slowly add the milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the cheddar, Gruyere, and cream cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, mixing well.
Transfer to a greased baking dish.
In a separate bowl, mix together Panko and Parmesan, then sprinkle over the top of the mac and cheese.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra creaminess, add more cream cheese.
Use different cheeses for varied flavors; mozzarella or gouda can be great options.
Don’t skip the Panko breadcrumbs; they add a nice crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and super comforting. It’s an easy dish that everyone loves, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

how to serve Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese

Serve this dish hot right from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or some grilled vegetables if you want a complete meal.

how to store Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

tips to make Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese

Make sure to cook the macaroni less than usual since it will continue to cook in the oven.
Stir the cheese sauce continuously to avoid lumps.
Let it cool slightly before serving for easier serving.

variation

You can add cooked bacon, broccoli, or diced tomatoes to the mac and cheese for added flavor and nutrition.

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 540
Protein: 25g
Carbs: 48g
Fat: 29g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or oven. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry when reheating.

Customization Ideas

You can try different pasta shapes like penne or shells, and you can also experiment with spice by adding paprika or a bit of cayenne for heat.

Disclaimer:

This recipe contains dairy and gluten. Make adjustments if you have dietary restrictions.

why make this recipe

Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese is a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and joy to any table. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized to suit everyone’s taste.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep and assemble it a day in advance and bake it when you’re ready.
How long can I freeze baked mac and cheese?
You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use low-fat milk?
Yes, but keep in mind it may be less creamy.
What if I don’t have Gruyere?
You can replace Gruyere with any other cheese you like, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack.