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Delicious Ooey Gooey Mac and Cheese Recipe

  • Author: Ava Garrison
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings

Description

Craving the ultimate comfort food? This Delicious Ooey Gooey Mac and Cheese is the answer. Packed with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, perfectly cooked macaroni, and a hint of smoky depth, this dish is the perfect balance of flavor and texture. It’s a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or festive gatherings. From the first cheesy pull to the last creamy bite, this mac and cheese delivers pure, unfiltered comfort. Get ready to impress your taste buds with every forkful.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly grated
  • ½ cup Gruyère cheese, freshly grated (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for the breadcrumb topping, if using)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, until light golden.

  3. Add the Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking over medium heat until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

  4. Season the Sauce: Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk to combine.

  5. Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Add the grated cheeses in batches, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy.

  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until evenly coated.

  7. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish or cast iron skillet.

  8. Add the Breadcrumb Topping (Optional): Mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle over the pasta.

  9. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

  10. Serve and Enjoy: Let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or chives if desired.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

SAVE THIS RECIPE ON PINTEREST

Find it online: https://avacheflife.com/delicious-ooey-gooey-mac-and-cheese-recipe/