Ultimate Comfort Food: Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe

Ingredients

Pasta & Cheese

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Béchamel Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all‑purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Crunchy Topping

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Making the Béchamel

1. Butter & Flour. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons all‑purpose flour over the butter, whisking constantly for 2 minutes to form a blond roux. This cooked flour eliminates any raw taste and creates the thickening base.
2. Incorporate Milk. Gradually whisk in 2 cups warm whole milk. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 4‑5 minutes. A steady temperature prevents lumps and ensures a silky sauce.
3. Season & Flavor. Stir in 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The mustard adds subtle tang, while the paprika contributes a gentle smoky note that elevates the cheese.
4. Add the Cheeses. Reduce heat to low and fold in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar, 1 cup shredded Gruyère, and ½ cup grated Parmesan. Stir until each cheese melts completely, creating a glossy, velvety sauce that coats the back of a spoon.

Preparing the Crunchy Topping

1. Mix Dry Ingredients. In a small bowl, combine ½ cup panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan. The breadcrumbs provide texture; the extra Parmesan intensifies the crust’s flavor.
2. Add Butter. Drizzle 2 tablespoons melted butter over the breadcrumb mixture and toss until evenly coated. The butter helps the topping brown evenly and creates a crisp, golden finish.
3. Apply to Casserole. Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumb mixture uniformly over the top of the mac and cheese. Press lightly to adhere.