Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

This delightful macaroni and cheese recipe balances creamy, cheesy goodness with a crispy topping, offering a rich and comforting meal that everyone will enjoy. The combination of cheddar and Gruyere cheeses provides a melt-in-your-mouth experience, while the addition of smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness to the dish. By baking the pasta to a golden perfection, you'll achieve a fulfilling entrée or side dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe ensures that each bite is packed with flavor. The crunchy panko breadcrumb topping contrasts wonderfully with the creamy pasta beneath, making this a must-try dish. With simple ingredients and easy steps, even beginners in the kitchen can master this meal. Pair it with your favorite meats or salads for a complete and delicious dining experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

250 g short pasta with a hollow center
6 tbsp olive oil
45 g butter
35 g all-purpose flour

For the Sauce:

360 ml whole milk
120 ml heavy cream
300 g finely grated cheese (blend 2/3 cheddar cheese, 1/3 Gruyere cheese)
Salt to taste
Ground black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

40 g panko breadcrumbs
30 g melted butter
40 g grated hard cheese
1 pinch smoked paprika powder

Preparation Time

Total Time: 50 minutes (includes preparation and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C and greasing a baking dish with olive oil.
Grate and Mix Cheese: Finely grate the cheddar and Gruyere cheeses, mixing them thoroughly. Keep the hard cheese separate for the topping.
Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta, reducing the recommended cooking time by two minutes. Drain the water and return the pasta to the pot. Drizzle with olive oil and mix to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Prepare the Roux: In a heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour, stirring continuously until the mixture bubbles and turns golden.
Make the Sauce: Gradually pour the milk and cream into the roux, stirring constantly for a smooth consistency. Heat the mixture for two minutes.
Season the Sauce: Add salt and pepper, adjusting to your preference.
Incorporate Cheese: Start by adding one-third of the cheese (100 g) to the sauce, stirring until melted. Continue this process with another 100 g of cheese.
Mix with Pasta: Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is adequately coated.
Assemble the Dish: Spread half of the macaroni into the prepared baking dish. Top with most of the cheese sauce and 100 g of the cheese mix. Layer the remaining pasta over it and cover with the rest of the cheese sauce.
Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with panko breadcrumbs, grated hard cheese, and smoked paprika.
Add the Topping: Evenly distribute the topping over the macaroni.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes until the top is golden brown.
Serve Hot: Let it cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors. Enjoy your meal!

Tips

Cheese Varieties: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or Emmental for a different flavor profile.
Pasta Choice: Use any short pasta shape that holds sauce well, such as penne or fusilli.
Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 850 per serving
Protein: 30 g
Fats: 55 g
Carbs: 60 g

Variations

For a vegetarian version, ensure cheeses used are vegetarian-friendly.
Add cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky, meaty flavor.
Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier version.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad for a light contrast.
Serve with roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
Enjoy alongside oven-baked chicken or grilled fish.

Best Places

**Beecher's Handmade Cheese - Offers unique varieties of mac and cheese crafted with artisanal cheeses. Location: 1600 Pike Place, Seattle, USA.
S'MAC - Specializes in gourmet mac and cheese with diverse flavors and options. Location: 345 E 12th St, New York, USA.
The Fine Cheese Co. - Known for its fine selection of cheeses, paired perfectly with mac and cheese. Location: 32 Walcot St, Bath, England.
The Mac Factory - Offers unique twists on traditional mac and cheese recipes. Location: 20a Lamb's Conduit St, London, England.
Macbar - This spot serves inventive mac and cheese in creative styles. Location: 54 Prince St, New York, USA.
Homeroom - Famous for its wide variety of mac and cheese creations. Location: 400 40th St, Oakland, USA.
Melt Room - Offers a rich menu including robust mac and cheese options. Location: 26 Noel St, Soho, London, England.
Monty’s Cheese Deli - Provides a delightful array of cheese dishes, including top mac and cheese picks. Location: 227 Dolphin St, Coogee, Sydney, Australia.
The Cheese Bar - Highlights the best of British cheeses with its unique mac and cheese offerings. Location: Camden Market, London, England.
Cheesy Does It - Specializes in a variety of cheesy delights, ensuring an unforgettable mac and cheese experience. Location: 12 Market St, Melbourne, Australia.