Save to Pinterest This dish features perfectly cooked elbow macaroni coated in a smooth, creamy cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses. A buttery breadcrumb topping is spread evenly before baking until golden brown and bubbling. Gentle seasoning with garlic, onion powder, Dijon mustard, and black pepper enhances the sauce’s depth. It’s a comforting, satisfying main course ideal for vegetarians and can be customized with optional herbs or spices for extra flavor.
Discovering this baked macaroni and cheese felt like uncovering a warm hug from my childhood kitchen, where comfort food truly means love in a bowl.
I remember the first time unexpected guests showed up and I whipped this up in no time—everyone’s smiles told me I nailed it.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: This tender shape holds sauce beautifully, so never skip the al dente part for that perfect bite.
- Unsalted butter: I trust unsalted because it lets me control the saltiness while adding that creamy richness.
- All-purpose flour: The magic thickener that turns milk into a luscious cheese sauce without lumps.
- Whole milk: Creamy and full-bodied, it’s the heart of the sauce’s silky texture.
- Dijon mustard: A tiny tang that livens up the cheese without taking over.
- Garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt: My secret quartet for layered savory notes.
- Cheddar, Gruyère, Parmesan cheeses: Sharp, nutty, and savory blend for the ultimate cheese trio.
- Panko breadcrumbs: The crunchy crown that turns baking into a golden celebration.
- Fresh parsley: Optional but adds a fresh brighten-up right before serving.
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a baking dish so your masterpiece slides out with ease.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil macaroni in salted water until just firm to the bite—al dente is key—then drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Melt butter in a pan over medium heat, whisk in flour and cook until golden, then slowly whisk in milk to create a smooth sauce without lumps.
- Add the Flavor:
- Stir in Dijon, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt; simmer gently to develop depth before folding in all your cheeses until melted.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Toss the drained macaroni in the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is luxuriously coated.
- Top and Bake:
- Pour into your baking dish, sprinkle with buttery panko and Parmesan topping, then bake until bubbling and golden—about 25 to 30 minutes.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let it stand for 5 minutes so flavors settle; a sprinkle of parsley is the final flourish.
Save to Pinterest This dish became so much more than dinner the night we celebrated a tough year’s end; it was comfort, joy, and warmth from the oven making memories around the table.
Keeping It Fresh
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently to keep the sauce creamy—adding a splash of milk helps revive the texture beautifully.
When You're Missing Something
If you forget Dijon or any cheeses, don’t stress—extra sharp cheddar and a pinch of smoked paprika work wonders to fill in flavor gaps.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
This pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies for balance. For a cozy twist, try stirring in cooked bacon or caramelized onions.
- Before you leave, grab some extra breadcrumbs to sprinkle next time.
- Oh wait one more thing: always taste the sauce before baking to adjust salt and spices.
- Remember to let it rest after baking—patience pays off in every forkful.
Save to Pinterest Thanks for stopping by the kitchen—hope this recipe fills your home with as much warmth as it does mine.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
-
Elbow macaroni is ideal for holding the cheese sauce and ensuring even baking, but other small pasta shapes can be used as well.
- → How do you achieve a creamy sauce without lumps?
-
Gradually whisking the milk into the roux and stirring constantly at medium heat helps create a smooth, lump-free sauce.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses used?
-
Gruyère can be replaced with Monterey Jack or additional cheddar for a slightly different flavor profile.
- → What is the role of Dijon mustard in the sauce?
-
Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that balances the richness of the cheese sauce.
- → How do I get a crunchy topping?
-
Combining panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan, then baking until golden gives a crisp, textured crust.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
-
Yes, it contains no meat and uses dairy-based ingredients, making it vegetarian-friendly.
