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A baking dish filled with a creamy, golden-brown mac and cheese recipe.

Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

This ultimate creamy baked mac and cheese recipe delivers a rich, cheesy, and comforting dish that's perfect as a main course or a side.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 4 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups freshly grated Gruyère cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Topping
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Dutch oven
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish (9x13 inch)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, about 2 minutes less than package directions, then drain.
  2. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat, then whisk in flour for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
Sauce and Assembly
  1. Gradually whisk warmed milk into the roux until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, simmering gently for 5-8 minutes.
  2. Remove from heat, stir in cheddar and Gruyère cheeses until melted, then add Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  3. Combine the drained macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring gently to ensure all pasta is coated.
Baking (Optional)
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), pour mac and cheese into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, and top with panko breadcrumb mixture if desired.
  2. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown; alternatively, serve immediately if not baking.

Notes

For an extra crispy topping, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. If reheating, add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop or in the oven.