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Gourmet Baked Mac and Cheese

Gourmet Baked Mac and Cheese with a Crunchy Twist

This Gourmet Baked Mac and Cheese combines rich, creamy cheese and a crunchy topping for a delicious comfort food experience.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Elbow macaroni Feel free to substitute with gluten-free pasta.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 1 cup Sharp cheddar cheese Switch to mild cheddar for a gentler taste.
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese Emmental makes a great substitute.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella cheese Try provolone for a different melt.
  • 3 cups Whole milk Switch to heavy cream for richness or almond milk for a lighter option.
  • 4 tbsp Unsalted butter Use olive oil for a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1/4 cup All-purpose flour Replace with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder Fresh garlic can elevate the taste.
  • 1 tsp Onion powder Fresh shallots are an excellent substitute.
  • 1 tsp Mustard powder
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Crunchy Topping
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs Regular breadcrumbs can work if needed.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Pecorino Romano can provide a sharper edge.
  • 2 tbsp Melted butter
  • optional Fresh parsley For garnish.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • large saucepan
  • Small Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Gourmet Baked Mac and Cheese
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather your ingredients and equipment.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour for about 2 minutes until golden.
  4. Gradually whisk in 3 cups whole milk, stirring until thickened (about 5-7 minutes). Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup each of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella cheese until fully melted.
  6. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently until fully coated.
  7. In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoons melted butter.
  8. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
  10. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 300mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Fresh ingredients yield the best flavor. Experiment with cheese combinations and don't overcook the pasta for the best results.

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