The ULTIMATE Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Chef Elina

A creamy, cheesy baked macaroni recipe with a golden breadcrumb topping and rich three-cheese sauce. The ULTIMATE Baked Macaroni and Cheese is comfort food at its finest.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings serving

Calories 480 kcal

Ingredients

1 lb elbow macaroni or cavatappi4 tbsp unsalted butter4 tbsp all-purpose flour4 cups whole milk2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese1 tsp salt½ tsp mustard powder½ tsp smoked paprika1 cup breadcrumbs2 tbsp butter (melted, for topping)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Cook pasta one minute shy of package directions; drain and set aside.Melt butter in a large saucepan, whisk in flour, and cook for 1–2 minutes.Gradually whisk in warm milk until smooth; cook until thickened.Stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella until melted.Season with salt, mustard powder, and paprika.Combine sauce with pasta, then pour into a greased baking dish.Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter, sprinkle on top.Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Notes

Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. You can assemble ahead and refrigerate up to 2 days before baking.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 23gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 640mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6g

Keyword creamy mac and cheese, homemade baked macaroni, The ULTIMATE Baked Macaroni and Cheese

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