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Gourmet Baked Mac and Cheese

Gourmet Baked Mac and Cheese That'll Wow Your Taste Buds

This Gourmet Baked Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish featuring a blend of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella, enhanced with a crispy topping.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner Ideas
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni This classic shape holds the creamy cheese sauce beautifully.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 cups whole milk Ensures the sauce is delightfully creamy and smooth.
  • ½ cup unsalted butter Richness that will enhance the flavors of the cheese sauce.
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour Works as a thickener for the cheese sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Offers a subtle, aromatic flavor boost.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Complements the cheese by adding a hint of sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder Adds depth, balancing the richness of the cheese.
  • to taste salt Essential for seasoning the sauce perfectly.
  • to taste pepper Essential for seasoning the sauce perfectly.
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese Provides a bold flavor that packs a punch.
  • 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese Adds a nutty richness and melting quality.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Contributes a gooey texture that hails from Italian origins.
For the Crunchy Topping
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs For that satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creamy dish.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Offers a salty and umami kick to the topping.
  • optional fresh parsley, chopped Adds a pop of color and freshness, perfect for garnish.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large saucepan
  • Whisk
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente for about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 2 minutes.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk until thickened, around 5–7 minutes.
  5. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
  6. Remove from heat and gradually stir in the cheeses until melted and smooth.
  7. Combine the pasta and cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated.
  8. Mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter.
  9. Spread the mac and cheese in a greased baking dish and top with the breadcrumb mixture.
  10. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
  11. Allow to cool for a few minutes before garnishing with parsley and serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 600IUCalcium: 600mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Feel free to customize by adding your favorite veggies or proteins for a unique twist each time!

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