Get ready to transform your ordinary mac and cheese experience into an extraordinary culinary adventure! This isn't just another pasta dish – it's a smoky, creamy, golden-crusted masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine diving into a bubbling casserole of perfectly cooked macaroni, enveloped in a rich, velvety smoked cheese sauce, and topped with a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust that adds an irresistible crunch with every bite.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups smoked cheese, shredded
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-9 minutes. Drain pasta in a colander and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, add all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to create a smooth roux, ensuring no lumps form.
- Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 5-6 minutes.
- Remove sauce from heat and stir in shredded smoked cheese until completely melted and incorporated. Add paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to ensure every pasta piece is evenly coated.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly across the top for a crispy golden crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes serving easier.
Tips
- Cheese Selection: For the best flavor, use a high-quality smoked cheese like Gouda or smoked cheddar. The smokiness adds depth to the traditional mac and cheese.
- Roux Mastery: When making the cheese sauce, whisk continuously to prevent lumps and achieve a silky-smooth texture. Low and slow is the key to a perfect roux.
- Al Dente Pasta: Cook the macaroni just until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy.
- Breadcrumb Trick: For an extra crispy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling on top.
- Resting Time: Allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce set and makes serving easier and more presentable.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this dish in advance and refrigerate before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Cholesterol: 95mg
