Description

Craving the ultimate comfort food? This Upgraded Mac and Cheese takes the classic to new heights. It’s made with creamy béchamel, sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, and a touch of parmesan for that extra savory depth. Whether you’re after an easy dinner, a kid-friendly favorite, or a warm, cheesy hug on a plate — this quick dinner idea is everything you’re looking for.

Ingredients

12 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 1/2 cups whole milk, warmed

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated

1 cup smoked gouda cheese, grated

1/2 cup parmesan cheese, finely grated

Pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika (optional)

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional topping)

1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping)

1 tablespoon grated parmesan (for topping)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just shy of al dente. Drain and toss with a little olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.

2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes until golden and fragrant.

3. Slowly whisk in the warmed milk and cream, cooking until thickened (5–7 minutes).

4. Season the sauce with garlic powder, mustard, salt, pepper, and optional spices. Adjust to taste.

5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, gouda, and parmesan until melted and smooth.

6. Gently fold in the cooked pasta until fully coated. Add a splash of milk if the sauce is too thick.

7. (Optional) Transfer to a buttered baking dish, top with the panko mixture, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother, silkier sauce.

Don’t skip the Dijon mustard — it enhances the cheese flavor.

For a crispy top, bake with panko-parmesan topping.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 480
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 480mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: upgraded mac and cheese, easy dinner, baked mac and cheese, cheesy pasta, comfort food