Best Macaroni Cheese Recipe

Ingredients for Best Macaroni Cheese

• Elbow Macaroni
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk
• Black Pepper
• Italian Seasoning
• Nutmeg
• Spicy Mustard
• Monterey Jack Cheese
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese
• Parmesan Cheese
• Breadcrumbs

How to Make Best Macaroni Cheese

1. Bring 1 gallon of water to a boil in a large pot. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of salt.
2. Add 1 pound of elbow macaroni to the boiling water.
3. Cook pasta according to package directions, until al dente (tender but firm), about 8-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside.
5. Melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
6. Gradually whisk in 4 cups of milk (whole milk recommended) into the roux, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
7. Reduce heat to low. Stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup of shredded Gruyere cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika until melted and smooth.
8. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to combine.
9. Grease a 13x9 inch baking dish. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared dish.
10. Top with 1/2 cup of panko bread crumbs and 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
11. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.