Ingredients
Scale
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
If you’re looking to switch things up, you can substitute the Gruyere with fontina or mozzarella for a milder flavor, or use gluten-free pasta if you’re avoiding gluten.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, until golden and bubbly.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil, mixing until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle over the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
As you follow these steps, remember that cooking is an expression of love, a lesson Nonna Rosa instilled in me. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the flavors as you go!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International