Ingredients List
A blend of simple kitchen staples and rich, gourmet touches makes this dish a creamy, crowd-pleasing classic with a touch of elegance. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Use 2½ cups whole milk as the base, or mix 1 cup cream with 1½ cups milk for extra richness.
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Use 1 tsp Dijon mustard for added complexity
- 2 cups of cheese
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (optional but heavenly)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella (for gooeyness)
- salt
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Use ½ cup panko breadcrumbs as a crunchy topping.
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1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (helps the topping achieve a perfectly crisp and golden finish)
This crowd-pleasing cheesy pasta dish is the epitome of homemade comfort food, with layers of creamy cheese sauce baked into every bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil to cook the pasta, starting your flavor base.Cook macaroni until just al dente (about 1 minute less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Roux
Set a wide saucepan over medium heat and let the butter melt until lightly foaming, signaling it's ready for the flour. Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously, letting the mixture cook into a smooth, golden paste over about two minutes. This forms the smooth, flavorful base that anchors your entire cheese sauce.
3. Add Milk & Cream
Gradually whisk in the milk and cream. Stir continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Flavor It Up
Add Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring gently as the sauce simmers; it will gradually thicken to a creamy consistency over the course of 5 to 7 minutes.
5. Melt the Cheese
Turn the heat down low and slowly stir in the cheeses, allowing each to melt fully for a smooth, luscious sauce. Mix until fully melted and smooth.
6. Combine with Pasta
Fold in the cooked pasta until evenly coated. Transfer the creamy pasta mixture into a buttered 9x13-inch dish, smoothing it out to form an even layer that’s ready for the crunchy topping.
7. Add the Crunch
Mix panko with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle the buttery crumbs evenly over the top for a perfectly crisp, golden crust that seals in all that cheesy goodness.
8. Bake
Slide the baking dish into a 375°F (190°C) oven and let it bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the edges bubble and the top develops a perfectly golden, mouthwatering crust.
