Smooth Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this recipe for Smooth Creamy Macaroni and Cheese, a rich and velvety dish that’s perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions. Featuring the perfect trio of sharp cheddar, gruyere, and parmesan cheeses, this recipe creates a luscious cheese sauce that's elevated with a hint of Dijon mustard and a touch of smoky paprika. The tender elbow macaroni is coated in a silky homemade roux-based sauce made with whole milk and heavy cream, making every bite incredibly decadent and satisfying. Ready in just 45 minutes, this hearty dish serves six and is best enjoyed fresh for the creamiest results. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra cheese or fresh parsley for a finishing touch, and watch it become a family favorite!

Nutriscore Rating: 52/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 16 oz 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, finely grated
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux. Do not let it brown.

Step 3

Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, ensuring the mixture is smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).

Step 4

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, gruyere cheese, and grated parmesan, one handful at a time. Allow each handful to fully melt before adding the next.

Step 5

Once all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth, stir in the Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to ensure every piece is coated evenly.

Step 7

Serve immediately for the creamiest results, garnished with an extra sprinkle of shredded cheese or fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2455.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	6470.6

Total Fat 379.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 229.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.1g
Cholesterol 1151.6mg	0%
Sodium 9513.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 434.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 17.7g	0%
Total Sugars 63.3g
Protein 307.0g	0%

Vitamin D 525.4IU	0%
Calcium 7323.2mg	0%
Iron 21.0mg	0%
Potassium 2226.6mg	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: 19.2%

Carbs: 27.3%