Lean In: The Ultimate Comforting Baked Mac ’n’ Cheese

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Comforting Mac 'n' Cheese
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Comforting Mac 'n' Cheese

Servings

6-8

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

25

minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (16 oz) elbow macaroni (or shells, cavatappi, or your favorite short pasta)

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

  • 3 cups whole milk, warmed

  • 1 tsp Himalayan salt

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/4 tsp mustard powder

  • 1/4 tsp paprika

  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated

  • Topping

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

  • 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

Directions

  • Preheat Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.

  • Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until just al dente (slightly firm, about 1-2 minutes less than full cook time). Drain and set aside.

  • Cheese Sauce:

    + In a large saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat.

    + Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux (should be smooth, not browned).

    + Gradually whisk in warm milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

    + Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, mustard powder and paprika.

    + Reduce heat to low and add 3 cups cheddar and 1 cup gruyere cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.

  • Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat evenly.

  • Topping:

    + In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, 1/2 cup cheddar, and smoked paprika (if using).

  • Bring it together and Bake:

    + Pour the mac and cheese into the greased baking dish.

    + Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.

    + Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy, and the cheese is bubbly.

  • 7. Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with a side salad or roasted veggies for balance.

Notes

  • Cheese: Grate your own cheese for a smoother melt and a cleaner ingredient.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
  • Vegan: Simply substitute milk for cashew milk and your favorite vegan cheese
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