Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese
A decadent and cheesy baked mac and cheese recipe, elevated with gourmet ingredients and a unique twist.
Equipment Needed
- Large oven-safe skillet
- Pot
Ingredients
- 2.50 cupsElbow Macaroni(Uncooked, 10 oz package)
- 4.00 tablespoonsUnsalted Butter
- 4.00 tablespoonsAll-Purpose Flour
- 3.00 cupsMilk(Warm)
- 2.00 cupsShredded Gruyere Cheese(For extra flavor)
- 4.00 cupsShredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
- 1.00 teaspoonGarlic Powder
- 1.00 teaspoonOnion Powder
- 0.50 teaspoonSalt
- 0.25 teaspoonBlack Pepper
- 0.50 teaspoonPaprika(Smoked paprika for a smoky flavor)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Estimated time: 5 minutes
Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
Estimated time: 8 minutes
Melt butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
Estimated time: 3 minutes
Whisk in flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; cook for 1-2 minutes until smooth and lightly browned.
Estimated time: 5 minutes
Gradually whisk in warm milk until smooth and free of lumps.
Estimated time: 5 minutes
Stir in Gruyere and half of the cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
Estimated time: 5 minutes
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens.
Estimated time: 5 minutes
Add cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir to coat.
Estimated time: 2 minutes
Top with remaining cheddar cheese and sprinkle with paprika.
Estimated time: 2 minutes
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Estimated time: 15 minutes