The Best Macaroni Cheese Recipe

Cheetahshop

November 10, 2022

Introduction

Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. It’s creamy, cheesy, and satisfying. This recipe takes that classic dish to the next level with a few simple additions.

Ingredients

1 lb elbow macaroni
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup panko bread crumbs
2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream until smooth. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine the Macaroni and Cheese Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.

Step 5: Make the Bread Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs and olive oil. Stir until the bread crumbs are evenly coated.

Step 6: Bake the Macaroni and Cheese

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture over the top of the macaroni and cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread crumbs are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Nutrition

Per serving:

Calories: 720
Total Fat: 44g
Saturated Fat: 25g
Cholesterol: 140mg
Sodium: 1180mg
Total Carbohydrates: 52g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 28g

Conclusion

This macaroni and cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food. The creamy cheese sauce is perfectly seasoned with garlic, onion, and herbs, and the bread crumb topping adds a satisfying crunch. Serve this dish as a main course or as a side dish for your next family gathering or potluck. Enjoy!