Creamy Mac n Cheese Recipe

Ingredients

• 12 oz Elbow Macaroni (dry, uncooked)
• 4 Tbsp Unsalted Butter (cut into small cubes, room temperature)
• 4 Tbsp All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
• 2 cup Whole Milk (preferably 2% or whole for richness)
• 1 cup Heavy Cream (for extra silkiness)
• 8 oz Sharp Cheddar Cheese (grated, aged 12‑18 months for depth)
• 4 oz Mozzarella Cheese (shredded, for meltiness)
• 2 Tbsp Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated, for nutty finish)
• 1 tsp Dry Mustard Powder (adds subtle tang)
• 1/2 tsp Paprika (smoked paprika preferred)
• 1 tsp Salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
• 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (optional, for crunchy topping)
• 1 Tbsp Olive Oil (to toss breadcrumbs)

Instructions

1. Prepare Pasta

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7‑8 minutes. Drain in a colander and set aside.

   Time: PT10M

   Temperature: 212°F

2. Make the Roux

   In a medium saucepan melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and whisk constantly for 2‑3 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color and smells nutty.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: 350°F

3. Create the Cheese Sauce

   Slowly pour the whole milk and heavy cream into the roux while whisking vigorously. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 4‑5 minutes. Reduce heat to low and stir in mustard powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the grated cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan; stir until completely melted and smooth.

   Time: PT7M

   Temperature: 350°F

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

   Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, tossing gently with a spatula until every piece is evenly coated.

   Time: PT5M

5. Prepare Topping (Optional)

   In a small bowl mix the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil until lightly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese in the baking dish.

   Time: PT3M

6. Bake

   Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9‑inch baking dish. Place in a pre‑heated oven and bake at 375°F for 20‑25 minutes, until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling.

   Time: PT25M

   Temperature: 375°F

7. Rest and Serve

   Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making serving easier.

   Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

620

Protein

22g

Carbohydrates

55g

Fat

32g

Fiber

2g