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The Best Ooey Gooey Mac and Cheese Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Ooey Gooey Mac and Cheese recipe! Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked, it’s the best mac and cheese you’ll ever taste.
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Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp mustard powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika optional
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp melted butter

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Whisk
  • Saucepan
  • Baking dish (9x13 inches)
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Mixing bowls

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Make the cheese sauce
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, ensuring no lumps remain. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
  6. Stir in garlic powder, mustard powder, paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyère until melted and smooth.
  7. Combine pasta and sauce
  8. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, mixing well to coat every piece of pasta.
  9. Prepare the topping
  10. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter until evenly coated.
  11. Assemble and bake
  12. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread the breadcrumb topping evenly over the pasta.
  13. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
  14. Serve and enjoy
  15. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for the ultimate ooey-gooey experience!