Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese (Half Batch)
- justahomecook2017
- Jan 27
- 1 min read
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• ½ tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/6 cup all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Gouda cheese, shredded
• Salt & pepper to taste
Topping
• ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• ⅛ tsp smoked paprika (or regular) Directions
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a baking dish.
2️⃣ Cook pasta 1 minute shy of al dente, drain, toss with olive oil, and set aside.
3️⃣ Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook about 1 minute until bubbly.
4️⃣ Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream. Cook, whisking, until smooth and slightly thickened. Season with salt & pepper.
5️⃣ Stir in cheddar and Gouda a handful at a time until melted and creamy.
6️⃣ Fold pasta into the cheese sauce until fully coated.
7️⃣ Transfer to baking dish.
8️⃣ Mix panko, melted butter, Parmesan, and paprika. Sprinkle on top.
9️⃣ Bake 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown. Let rest a few minutes, then serve. #MacAndCheese
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