john legend mac and cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best john legend mac and cheese recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite John Legend mac and cheese recipe. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether we’re having a family gathering or just a regular weeknight dinner, mac and cheese is always a hit. I love how comforting and satisfying it is, and the best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they can’t get enough of this creamy, cheesy goodness.

I’ve tried many different mac and cheese recipes over the years, but this one from John Legend is by far the best. It’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor, and it’s made with just a few simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand. I like to serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. This recipe has become a family favorite, and I know you’ll love it just as much as we do. One of the things I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is.

We can serve it as a main course, or as a side dish for something like roasted chicken or pork chops. It’s also a great way to use up leftover pasta or vegetables that are starting to get a little old. My kids are always asking for seconds (and sometimes even thirds!) , which is music to my ears after all the fussing they can be sometimes. The best part is that this recipe is incredibly easy to make ahead of time.

You can prepare the pasta and cheese mixture up to a day in advance, then simply assemble the dish when you’re ready to serve it. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress your guests without too much fuss. I’ve served this mac and cheese at countless family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday meals, and it’s always been a huge hit. People love how rich and creamy it is, and they’re always amazed by how simple it is to make. I’ve even served it at our church socials, where everyone raves about the dish’s comforting goodness.

As for where this dish comes from, I believe John Legend originally shared his mac and cheese recipe on his blog many years ago. Since then, it’s become one of his most popular recipes online. I was lucky enough to stumble upon it while searching for new ideas on Pinterest one day. The key technique in this recipe is using a combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese for an extra-creamy texture that will have everyone begging for more. One more thing: be sure to use high-quality cheese that’s fresh from the dairy aisle!

The better your cheese tastes, the better your mac and cheese will taste.

John Legend Mac and Cheese

4.9 from 1508 votes

This creamy and decadent mac and cheese recipe from John Legend features a blend of three cheeses and a crispy breadcrumb topping. It is a soulful and comforting dish perfect for holidays or special dinners.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 580 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

1 pound elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Topping

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
5In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
6Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
7Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth.
8Add the salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
9Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar, Gruyere, and mozzarella cheeses.
10Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes.
11Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
12Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
13In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese.
14Sprinkle this topping evenly over the mac and cheese.
15Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly around the edges.
16Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Medium saucepan
Whisk
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 580 kcal🧈Total Fat: 32g💛Saturated Fat: 19g❤️Cholesterol: 100mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 24g

📝Notes

For a smokier flavor, use smoked cheddar or add a pinch of liquid smoke to the cheese sauce. You can also substitute the Gruyere with fontina or gouda for a different taste. Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente so it does not become mushy after baking.

Watch Video Of How John Legend Mac and Cheese Works

This John Legend mac and cheese is the one I keep coming back to because it is rich, creamy, and simple enough to pull off on a busy day.

It fits any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to a big family gathering, and it always gets finished.

If you bring it to your next get together, expect someone to ask you for the recipe.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About John Legend Mac and Cheese

What type of pasta should I use?

This recipe works well with any type of pasta you prefer – elbow macaroni, shells, or even small penne tubes all work beautifully.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Of course! Feel free to experiment with different combinations of cheddar and Parmesan – mozzarella or feta would add an interesting twist.

How long does this mac and cheese keep in the fridge?

This macaroni casserole will keep in the fridge for up to three days before reheating.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes – simply assemble the casserole as directed but don’t bake until you’re ready!

Will my kids like this?

This one’s a kid-friendly classic!

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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