Chef Tracey's Macaroni and Cheese

Dive into the ultimate comfort food experience with Chef Tracey's Macaroni and Cheese—a creamy, decadent masterpiece that takes classic mac and cheese to gourmet heights. Featuring a velvety sauce made from sharp cheddar, nutty Gruyere, and rich Parmesan, this dish is elevated with the subtle tang of Dijon mustard and a hint of smoky paprika. Tender elbow macaroni is smothered in the luscious cheese sauce, then topped with crispy, golden panko breadcrumbs for the perfect contrast in texture. Ready in just 45 minutes, this baked macaroni and cheese recipe is ideal for indulgent weeknight dinners or a show-stopping side dish for family gatherings. Treat your taste buds to the ultimate homemade mac and cheese experience!

Nutriscore Rating: 55/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 16 ounces elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden and smells nutty.

Step 4

Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to ensure no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, Gruyere cheese, and Parmesan cheese a handful at a time, ensuring each batch melts before adding the next.

Step 6

Once the cheeses are fully incorporated, stir in the Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 7

Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and mix well to coat thoroughly.

Step 8

Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 9

In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.

Step 10

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Step 11

Let the dish cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your rich, creamy, and cheesy macaroni and cheese!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2362.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	6116.3

Total Fat 352.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 204.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.4g
Cholesterol 1041.1mg	0%
Sodium 7595.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 470.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 19.9g	0%
Total Sugars 67.0g
Protein 255.8g	0%

Vitamin D 525.4IU	0%
Calcium 5604.8mg	0%
Iron 23.4mg	0%
Potassium 2015.2mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 52.2%

Protein: 16.8%

Carbs: 30.9%