From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
1/9
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 350℉.
2
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
3
Cook the macaroni noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4
In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
5
Once melted, whisk the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
6
Gradually whisk in the milk and whipping cream, making sure there are no lumps.
7
Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
8
Stir in the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
9
Remove from the heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheeses until melted completely and smooth.
10
Taste and add more seasoning or salt and pepper as needed.
11
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until completely combined.
12
Pour the macaroni and cheese into the greased casserole dish.
13
In a small saucepan, melt the rest of the butter (4 tablespoons).
14
Once melted, mix in the panko breadcrumbs until they are well coated.
15
In a small bowl, combine the buttered panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
16
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the macaroni and cheese evenly.
17
Bake at 350℉ for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
18
Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
My Calorie Intake
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Tips & Tricks (5)
- Toast Your Pasta First 🍝Lightly toast the uncooked elbow macaroni in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes before boiling to add a subtle nutty depth that enhances the cheese sauce complexity.
- Make a Perfect Béchamel Base 🧈Create a smooth, lump-free cheese sauce by making a proper roux (equal parts butter and flour) and gradually whisking in warm milk, ensuring the base is silky before adding your three cheeses.
- Layer Your Cheeses Strategically 🧀Add Gruyere and sharp cheddar to the hot sauce first for depth, then finish with Parmesan off-heat to preserve its delicate flavors and prevent graininess from overcooking.
- Crisp Your Panko Topping Perfectly ✨Toss panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and a pinch of smoked paprika before topping, then bake at 400°F for the last 8-10 minutes to achieve maximum golden crunch without burning.
- Reserve Starchy Pasta Water 💧Save 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining, then use it to adjust the sauce consistency if needed—the starch creates a silkier, more cohesive final dish than milk alone.
Recipe Facts
Diet at a Glance
Vegetarian
Low Sugar
My Calorie Intake
Smart Nutrition 
Nutrition Per Serving
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Glycemic Analysis
Glycemic Index
Glycemic Load
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