Just Like California Pizza Kitchen Mac Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this "Just Like California Pizza Kitchen Mac & Cheese" recipe, a creamy and decadent take on the classic dish. Perfectly al dente elbow macaroni is enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce made with a trio of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses, bringing bold, rich flavors to every bite. The addition of a buttery panko breadcrumb topping, broiled to golden perfection, adds a satisfying crunch to this hearty favorite. With its silky texture, a hint of garlic, and a straightforward cooking process, this recipe is a must-try for cheese lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike. Ideal for family dinners, casual gatherings, or a comforting solo indulgence, this mac and cheese delivers gourmet restaurant quality right in your own kitchen!

Nutriscore Rating: 52/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 3 cups elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1.5 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted, for topping)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to make a roux.

Step 3

Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring a smooth mixture. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the sauce thickens slightly (about 4-5 minutes).

Step 4

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and Parmesan cheese, a handful at a time, until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.

Step 5

Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Step 6

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.

Step 7

If adding a breadcrumb topping, preheat the broiler. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.

Step 8

Place the mac and cheese under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 9

Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1868.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	5022.6

Total Fat 320.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 190.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.8g
Cholesterol 944.7mg	0%
Sodium 6329.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 335.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 13.6g	0%
Total Sugars 48.0g
Protein 189.3g	0%

Vitamin D 406.1IU	0%
Calcium 4188.1mg	0%
Iron 15.0mg	0%
Potassium 1579.4mg	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: 57.9%

Protein: 15.2%

Carbs: 26.9%