Grandma's Homemade Macaroni and Cheese

Indulge in the irresistible comfort of Grandma's Homemade Macaroni and Cheese, a timeless recipe that brings creamy, cheesy bliss to the dinner table. This classic dish combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich, velvety cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan for an elevated flavor profile that’s anything but ordinary. Expertly seasoned with a touch of ground mustard and paprika, this baked macaroni and cheese is finished with an optional golden breadcrumb topping for added crunch. Ready in just 45 minutes, this crowd-pleasing casserole is perfect as a hearty side or a satisfying main dish. Whether you're recreating cherished family memories or making a new tradition, this recipe promises to deliver comfort in every bite.

Nutriscore Rating: 49/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups Elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 3 cups Whole milk
• 2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1 cup Gruyère cheese (shredded)
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoons Ground black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoons Ground mustard
• 0.25 teaspoons Paprika
• 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.

Step 2

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

Step 3

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until a smooth paste forms. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

Step 4

Gradually add the milk to the flour mixture, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, ground mustard, and paprika.

Step 6

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 7

If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the top for a crunchy topping.

Step 8

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

Step 9

Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1635.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4219.9

Total Fat 251.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 154.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.8g
Cholesterol 770.0mg	0%
Sodium 8806.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 253.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 9.8g	0%
Total Sugars 45.9g
Protein 239.8g	0%

Vitamin D 376.8IU	0%
Calcium 6303.7mg	0%
Iron 11.9mg	0%
Potassium 1776.6mg	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: 53.5%

Protein: 22.6%

Carbs: 23.9%