Macaroni and cheese casserole is a beloved comfort food that brings together tender pasta and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite cheeses and add-ins.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni or your favorite short pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste (roux). Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Seasonings and Cheese: Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (if using). Add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Gruyère cheese (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. If using, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight with your favorite main courses or on its own!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheeses such as Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a bit of a kick. Mixing different cheeses can also add a unique flavor to the casserole.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze macaroni and cheese casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Q: What can I substitute for heavy cream? A: If you prefer not to use heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or additional milk. The casserole will still be delicious, though slightly less rich.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the casserole? A: Yes, this recipe is very versatile. You can add ingredients like cooked bacon, ham, or sausage for extra protein. You can also mix in vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free pasta and substituting the all-purpose flour in the cheese sauce with a gluten-free flour blend. Also, use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping.
This macaroni and cheese casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy!