For most of us, Mac and Cheese has likely been a staple meal since we were kids. Trust me when I say this recipe is far from the boxed Kraft variety. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
Mac and Cheese a unique dish. It can easily be a main meal, or just as easily be the perfect side and compliment. When we made this the first time, we planned it as a side, but every time since then, we can’t seem to stop taking another bite so we make it as the main course! Here are a few tips to make it perfect every time:
Cheese – The first big decision to make it what type of cheese to use! For me I found the perfect combo is Medium Cheddar and Gruyere. Packs enough flavor but still keeps it light and soft
Noodles – Choose any type you would like (in terms of shape) but make sure you only cook them til a few minutes before al dente. They will bake and cook a little more throughout and you don’t want them to just fall apart
Cheese Sauce – When you prepare this sauce, just be ready to constantly stir. Stirring and proper heat will determine whether or not this dish turns out! Start it out on medium. Add the butter and flour. Whisk for a minute and then slowly whisk in the whole milk and half & half. Do the same with the cheese and then dump it over the noodles!
For my gluten free fans, this is another easy one! Replace the noodles with a GF noodle (I use Barilla Elbow Noodles), Use a gluten free panko, and make sure to use gluten free flour. Every time I make it, I do it GF and it turns out perfect!
Hope you enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 lb Elbow Noodles
- ½ C Butter
- ½ C Flour
- 1½ C Whole Milk
- 2½ C Half & Half
- 4 C Medium Cheddar, shredded
- 2 C Gruyere, shredded
- ½ T Salt
- ½ t Pepper
- ¼ t Paprika
For the Panko
- 1 C Panko
- 3 T Butter
- ⅓ C Parmesan, grated
- ¼ t Paprika
Instructions
- Boil the noodles until 1-2 minutes before al dente. Strain and set aside
- In a pan on medium heat, add the butter. Once melted whisk in the flour and continuously stir for 1 minute (it should start to get golden)
- Combine the whole mix and half & half and then slowly mix in to the flour. Once the sauce starts to thicken, remove the heat, add in the spices and 3C of the cheese blend and mix it all together
- In a bowl, combine the noodles and the cheese sauce. In a baking dish, add half the noodle mixture, top with half the remaining cheese and repeat.
- Combine the ingredients for the panko, sprinkle over the top and bake at 350 for 25-30 minutes
- Enjoy!
