Forget everything you know about boring, bland mac and cheese from a box! This isn't your childhood favorite—this is a sophisticated, restaurant-worthy dish that will transform your perception of this classic comfort food. Imagine a creamy, luxurious sauce blending sharp cheddar and nutty Gruyère, creating a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or craving an indulgent weeknight meal, this gourmet mac and cheese is about to become your new culinary obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces macaroni pasta
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add macaroni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain pasta in a colander and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once butter is completely melted and starts to foam, add all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux. This helps prevent lumps in the cheese sauce.
- Gradually pour milk into the roux, whisking constantly to prevent any clumping. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and add garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Add shredded sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheeses to the sauce. Stir until cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is creamy and uniform in color.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, gently folding to ensure every pasta piece is coated with the rich, creamy sauce.
- Optional: For a crispy top, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle additional cheese on top, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let the macaroni and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set. Serve hot and enjoy your gourmet mac and cheese.
Tips
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest, most melting sauce. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
- Create a perfect roux by cooking the butter and flour mixture until it's golden and smells slightly nutty—this eliminates the raw flour taste.
- Add milk gradually and whisk constantly to prevent lumps in your sauce. Patience is key to a silky-smooth cheese sauce.
- For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of mustard powder or a splash of white wine to your sauce.
- To prevent your mac and cheese from becoming dry, slightly undercook your pasta, as it will continue to absorb sauce while baking.
- If you want a crispy top, use a broiler-safe dish and watch carefully to prevent burning. Those golden, crispy edges are what transform a good mac and cheese into a great one!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 90mg
