
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
Ultra-creamy macaroni and cheese with a golden, crispy top — a rich Southern comfort side.
Recipe by the SouthernComfy Editorial Team
Developed and reviewed by our editorial team.
Prep Time
20m
Cook Time
35m
Servings
10
Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Nutrition
Per serving · estimated
Calories
580
Protein
24 g
Carbs
42 g
Fat
35 g
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Ingredients
Shop the tools- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Cook macaroni until just al dente.
Gradually add milk and cream, whisking until smooth.
Bring to simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Remove from heat, stir in cheeses, mustard, and cayenne until melted.
Season with salt and pepper.
Fold in cooked macaroni and pour into greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
Mix panko with melted butter and sprinkle on top.
Bake 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Chef's Comfy Tip
Use freshly shredded cheese - pre-shredded has anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting into that perfect creamy sauce.
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