million dollar macaroni and cheese recipe

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The Best million dollar macaroni and cheese recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite million dollar macaroni and cheese recipe. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or a show-stopping side dish for your next family gathering, this recipe delivers. I’ve tried many macaroni and cheese recipes over the years, but this one stands out from the rest due to its rich, creamy flavor and velvety texture.

My kids love it when I serve it as a main course, and my husband requests it whenever he’s feeling down. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great option for busy families like mine.

The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients, such as sharp cheddar cheese and whole milk, which gives the dish its distinctive flavor. I also like to add some spice with a pinch of paprika, which adds depth without overpowering the other flavors.

Once you’ve mastered this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it again and again for special occasions or everyday meals.

Million Dollar Macaroni and Cheese

Million Dollar Macaroni and Cheese

4.7 from 1844 votes

This rich and creamy macaroni and cheese recipe is topped with a crispy breadcrumb topping, making it a million-dollar dish for any occasion. It features a blend of cheeses and a velvety sauce, all baked to perfection.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Macaroni

12 ounces elbow macaroni

For the Cheese Sauce

4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese

For the Topping

2 cups panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon paprika

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
3Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
4Drain the macaroni using a colander and set it aside.
5In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
6Add the flour and whisk to form a roux.
7Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture turns a light golden color.
8Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
9Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
10Stir in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
11Add the shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheeses to the sauce, stirring until they are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
12Remove from heat.
13In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, salt, and paprika.
14Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
15In a large baking dish, combine the cooked macaroni and the cheese sauce.
16Stir well to ensure the macaroni is fully coated in the sauce.
17Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
18Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
19Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
20This allows the cheese sauce to settle and makes it easier to serve.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Saucepan
Whisk
Baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.

Watch Video Of How Million Dollar Macaroni and Cheese Works

This million dollar macaroni and cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family dinner or need a comforting meal after a long day. It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy families like mine.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s easily customizable – you can add your favorite mix-ins or spices to give it an extra boost of flavor. For example, my kids love adding diced ham or cooked bacon to give it an extra layer of savory goodness.

Another great thing about this recipe is that it reheats beautifully – simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or in the microwave on high for 30-60 seconds.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Million Dollar Macaroni and Cheese

What type of pasta should I use?

You can use any type of pasta you like, but I prefer to use elbow macaroni because it holds onto the cheese sauce perfectly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cheese sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze it for up to 3 months.

How do I prevent the macaroni from becoming mushy?

To prevent the macaroni from becoming mushy, make sure to cook it al dente before mixing it with the cheese sauce.

Can I substitute other types of cheese?

While you can substitute other types of cheese, I highly recommend sticking with sharp cheddar for its distinctive flavor and texture.

How do I reheat leftover macaroni and cheese?

You can reheat leftover macaroni and cheese in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or in the microwave on high for 30-60 seconds.

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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