Elevated & Extra Creamy
If you’re craving a dish that strikes the perfect balance between comfort and decadence, look no further than this gourmet mac and cheese recipe. It’s an extra cheesy, perfectly creamy delight that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. The optional breadcrumb topping and smoky bacon make for a delightful twist, elevating your classic mac to gourmet status.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups milk
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside while preparing the sauce.
- Start the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Sprinkle in the flour while whisking constantly to create a smooth roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, but do not let it brown.
- Add the milk: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Add the cheeses: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until the mixture becomes velvety and fully melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. (Feel free to adjust seasoning—mac and cheese LOVES a little extra pepper!)
- Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and gently fold everything together until fully coated.
- Prepare the topping: If using breadcrumbs, mix them with a teaspoon of melted butter for extra crispiness. Stir in crumbled bacon if desired.
- Bake: Transfer the macaroni and cheese to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly, the top is lightly golden, and your kitchen smells heavenly.
- Serve: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to help the sauce settle and thicken.
Tips for a Perfect Bake
- Go extra creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the cheese sauce for richer flavor and silkier texture.
- Mix up your cheeses: Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or smoked cheddar all add unique depth and melt beautifully.
- Upgrade the topping: Try adding garlic powder, paprika, parsley, or even crushed Ritz crackers to the breadcrumbs.
- Make it a meal: Stir in extras like cooked chicken, caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted broccoli.
This baked mac and cheese is cozy, comforting, and endlessly customizable—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that can become your next signature family recipe. Enjoy!
