parmesan mac and cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best parmesan mac and cheese recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite parmesan mac and cheese recipe. This classic comfort food dish has been a staple in our household for years, and for good reason.

It’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. My kids love helping me in the kitchen with this recipe, and they always get excited when they see the cheesy goodness coming out of the oven.

But what makes this recipe truly special is the way it combines the creamy texture of macaroni and cheese with the nutty flavor of parmesan cheese. It’s a match made in heaven, and one that I just can’t get enough of.

I’ve experimented with different types of pasta and cheeses over the years, but there’s something about this combination that just can’t be beat. The key to making this recipe truly shine is to use high-quality ingredients, particularly when it comes to the parmesan cheese.

Freshly grated parmesan has a depth of flavor that you just can’t replicate with pre-shredded cheese. And let’s not forget the importance of cooking the pasta al dente – it makes all the difference in how well the sauce coats each piece of pasta.

With these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to creating a parmesan mac and cheese that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Creamy Parmesan Mac and Cheese

4.5 from 676 votes

A rich and comforting mac and cheese recipe elevated with Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

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

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

12 oz elbow macaroni
1 cup butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
6 cups whole milk
6 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
4Drain the pasta using a colander and set it aside.
5In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
6Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously to form a roux.
7Cook the roux for 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden color and gives off a slightly nutty aroma.
8Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
9Cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens slightly and begins to simmer.
10This should take approximately 5-7 minutes.
11Stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
12Continue to whisk until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
13If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more milk to reach your desired consistency.
14Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce in a large bowl, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated.
15Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
16Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
17Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Saucepan
Whisk
Colander
Baking dish

📊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: For a crispier top, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter over the mac and cheese before baking.

Watch Video Of How Creamy Parmesan Mac and Cheese Works

This parmesan mac and cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a comforting meal after a long day.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it reheats – simply pop it back in the oven until warmed through and serve again.

When storing leftovers, be sure to cool them down completely before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Parmesan Mac and Cheese

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

A: For this recipe, I recommend using a medium-shaped pasta like elbow macaroni or cavatappi. These shapes allow for even coating with the cheesy sauce and hold onto it nicely.

Q: Can I use other types of cheese instead of parmesan?

A: While you can experiment with other cheeses, parmesan is essential to this recipe due to its unique flavor profile. However, if you want to try something different, you can substitute other hard cheeses like cheddar or provolone.

Q: How do I prevent the macaroni from becoming mushy?

A: To avoid mushy pasta, make sure to cook it al dente – this means it should still have some bite or firmness when you bite into it. You can also try adding a tablespoon or two of cornstarch or flour to thicken the sauce before adding it to the pasta.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare this recipe up to 24 hours in advance by cooking the pasta and making the cheese sauce separately. Then, simply assemble everything together just before baking.

Q: Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to three months by transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag after they’ve cooled completely.

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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