Baked Mac and Cheese
Creamy, cheesy macaroni baked to perfection with a golden, crispy top. This classic comfort food features a rich cheese sauce and is finished with a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, for sauce
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
- 1 tsp dry mustard powder
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted, for topping
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Instructions
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1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
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2
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 1 lb elbow macaroni and cook for 2 minutes less than the package directions for al dente. Drain and set aside.
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3
In a large saucepan, melt the 4 tbsp for sauce unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until smooth and bubbling slightly, but not browning.
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4
Gradually whisk in the 3 cups whole milk, continuing to whisk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
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5
Remove from heat and stir in the 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Add the 1 tsp dry mustard powder, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Stir until well combined.
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6
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
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7
In a small bowl, combine the 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 tsp paprika, and melted 2 tbsp melted, for topping unsalted butter. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with butter.
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8
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
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9
Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
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10
Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.