Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience with this Homemade Mac and Cheese recipe! It's creamy, cheesy, and topped with a delightful crunchy breadcrumb layer. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Tips for Perfection
Remember to cook the pasta just shy of al dente; it will continue to cook in the oven. Trust me, this part’s so satisfying when you taste that perfect texture!
Why You’ll Love It
This cheesy delight brings warmth and joy to any meal. With a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère, every bite is a heavenly experience. You’ve got to try this one!
Ingredients
- Breadcrumb Topping:
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- Pasta and Sauce:
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Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
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Step 1- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F and butter a 9x13-inch baking dish.
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Step 2- Make the Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, place the bread crumbs and olive oil. Toss to coat the bread crumbs, then add the pecorino cheese and toss to combine.
- Cook the Pasta:
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Step 3- Boil the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Prepare the macaroni according to the package instructions, cooking it a minute shy of al dente. Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
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Step 4- Make the sauce: In another large pot (or wash and dry the pasta pot and reuse it), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, whisking continuously, until the mixture is light golden brown, about 4 minutes. Slowly whisk in the milk. Add the garlic, mustard, paprika, salt, and several grinds of pepper and bring to a simmer, whisking continuously.
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Step 5- Add the cheese: Add the cheddar and Gruyère cheeses and whisk until melted. Cook, whisking often, over medium-low heat for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Add the cooked pasta and stir to coat.
- Bake the Dish:
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Step 6- Transfer and bake: Transfer to the prepared baking dish and top with the bread crumb mixture. Bake until the topping is crisp and the cheese is bubbling, about 20 minutes.
Nutrition
- Calories: 650, Fat: 30g, Carbs: 70g, Protein: 25g
Cooking techniques
Cooking Techniques
Whisking continuously is key to ensure a smooth cheese sauce. Don't rush this step—it makes all the difference in the creaminess of your mac and cheese!
Variations or substitutions
Variations or Substitutions
Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or Fontina! You can also add cooked bacon or vegetables for extra flavor and texture.
Storage tips
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture!
Notes
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and flour. Adjust cooking times as needed for the specific pasta you choose.
