The Definitive Mac and Cheese Casserole: A Study in Texture and Taste
A rich, baked macaroni and cheese featuring a three-cheese blend and a professional roux-based sauce for maximum creaminess.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar, grated
- 2 cups Gruyère, grated
- 1/2 cup Parmesan, grated
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil macaroni for 2 minutes less than package instructions; drain.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat; whisk in flour for 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in milk until thickened and smooth.
- Remove from heat; stir in cheddar and Gruyère until melted.
- Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce.
- Pour into a greased baking dish; top with Parmesan and paprika.
- Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until golden.