Description
Indulge in The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese, a comforting classic that brings joy to every table. This creamy, cheesy dish features a rich blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheeses, creating an outrageously delicious flavor profile. Topped with a crunchy Panko-Parmesan mixture, this mac and cheese is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering that calls for warmth and satisfaction. With its ultra-creamy texture and crispy finish, it’s sure to impress guests of all ages!
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded
- 1 ½ cups Panko crumbs
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until bubbly; gradually add milk and cream while whisking until smooth. Cook until thickened; season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in shredded cheeses until melted and creamy; combine with the pasta.
- Pour half into the baking dish, layer with remaining cheese, then add the rest of the pasta mixture.
- Combine Panko crumbs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and paprika; sprinkle over the top.
- Bake for about 30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg