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Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese

This isn't the blue box — this is the real deal, the kind with a golden breadcrumb top and a thick, creamy cheese sauce underneath. It takes a little more effort but it's the one the kids will talk about. Make it on a Sunday and feel like a total hero.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk warmed
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 tsp dry mustard powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs mixed with 2 tbsp melted butter

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook macaroni 2 minutes less than package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1-2 minutes until golden.
  3. Gradually whisk in warm milk and cream, cooking until sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
  4. Stir in cheddar, Gruyère, Parmesan, mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  5. Combine sauce with pasta and pour into a greased 9x13 baking dish.
  6. Top with buttered panko breadcrumbs and bake 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbling.