This mac and cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food, featuring a rich, creamy cheese sauce made with white cheddar, fontina, gruyere, and parmesan. Topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs, this dish is a perfect balance of gooey cheese and crunch.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
Cheese Sauce
- 1 cup (100g) white cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (100g) fontina cheese
- 2 cups (200g) gruyere cheese
- 1 cup (120g) parmesan or pecorino cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp Dijon powder or 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 5 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp flour
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk
- 1/2 cup additional milk for smoothness
Pasta
- 12oz (350g) elbow macaroni
Topping
- 3/4 cup (50g) panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp butter
Directions
- Cook the macaroni for 2-3 minutes less than the package instructions to achieve al dente.
- In a medium pan, melt 5 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add 4 tbsp flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
- Gradually add 1 cup of milk, whisking until smooth. Slowly add the rest of the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is free of lumps.
- Stir in Dijon powder, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne, and nutmeg. Cook for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Turn off the heat and add the cheeses. Stir until just combined—cheese doesn’t need to fully melt.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add 1/2 tbsp butter.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and stir to combine.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese to the skillet.
- In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with salt, garlic powder, and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh green salad for a lighter meal.
- Pair with a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
- Add cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage for extra protein.
- Serve with garlic bread for the perfect comfort food experience.
- Top with extra grated cheese or herbs like parsley for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips
- For a smoother cheese sauce, make sure to whisk the mixture continuously when adding the milk.
- Use a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor profile.
- If the sauce thickens too much, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
- For extra creaminess, add a little cream cheese to the sauce.
- If you want a crispier top, broil the mac and cheese for a minute or two at the end.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in protein from the cheese and pasta.
- Offers a good amount of calcium and vitamin A from the cheese.
- The whole wheat pasta variation can add fiber to the dish.
- The added spices like cayenne and mustard may have metabolism-boosting properties.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Can be made gluten-free with gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
- Can be made dairy-free with vegan cheese and butter substitutes.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Calcium: 350mg
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to regain creaminess.
- For best results, avoid freezing the dish as the cheese sauce may separate upon thawing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This mac and cheese recipe is a comfort food classic, but with a twist. The combination of different cheeses creates a rich, velvety sauce that perfectly coats each piece of pasta. The panko topping adds a satisfying crunch that balances the creamy texture. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make—perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Conclusion
This mac and cheese recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. The rich, creamy cheese sauce and crunchy panko topping make it irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it’s sure to be a hit. Plus, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like, but elbow macaroni is traditional. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the mac and cheese, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving. - Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes, you can substitute non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, though it may alter the flavor slightly. - How can I make this dish spicier?
Add extra cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for more heat. - Can I freeze mac and cheese?
Freezing is not recommended for this recipe, as the sauce may separate once thawed. - Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly shredded cheese will melt better and give a smoother sauce. - How do I get the panko topping crispy?
Ensure the breadcrumbs are mixed with butter, and bake the dish at high heat for a golden, crispy finish. - Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, try adding cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage for an extra protein boost. - How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. - How long does mac and cheese last in the fridge?
It will last 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.