Introduction
Creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious, this elbow macaroni dish elevates traditional mac and cheese to a whole new level. Perfectly cooked pasta mingles with a rich, velvety sauce packed with flavor from garlic, shallots, and a blend of cheeses. Topped with crispy Panko breadcrumbs and broiled to perfection, this dish will be a creamy comfort food favorite for any occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
1 pound large elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium shallot, minced
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
4 ½ cups shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8 people
The combination of these ingredients brings together a fantastic balance of flavors and textures, making each bite of this creamy macaroni dish an experience to remember. Enjoy it fresh from the oven for the best taste and texture!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to broil on high and position an oven rack 6 inches from the broiler. Lightly oil a baking sheet or coat it with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Cook Macaroni
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and shallot, cooking until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Whisk in the flour and paprika until lightly browned, approximately 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard until the mixture is slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, add more milk as needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 2 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, the Parmesan cheese, and the cooked macaroni until well combined. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
Step 6: Prepare Topping
In a small bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs with the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 7: Assemble Dish
Spread the macaroni mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the Panko and cheddar mixture evenly over the top.
Step 8: Broil
Place the baking sheet into the oven and broil, rotating the sheet pan a few times, until the top is golden brown and crispy, about 5-6 minutes.
Step 9: Serve
Serve immediately.
Notes
Note 1: Cooking Time
The total cooking time will vary based on your heat source and equipment. Stay attentive while broiling to prevent burning.
Note 2: Cheese Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors. Gouda or mozzarella can be excellent alternatives to cheddar.
Note 3: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
Cook elbow macaroni in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, ensuring it maintains a firm texture when mixed with the cheese sauce.
Sautéing Aromatics
Sauté minced garlic and shallots in melted butter until fragrant, allowing their essential flavors to infuse the dish.
Making a Roux
Whisk together flour and paprika with the butter to form a roux, cooking until lightly browned. This thickens the cheese sauce and adds depth of flavor.
Creating a Cheese Sauce
Gradually whisk in whole milk, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard until the sauce thickens, ensuring a creamy texture for the macaroni.
Combining Ingredients
Stir in shredded cheeses and cooked macaroni, mixing thoroughly for an even distribution of cheese and pasta.
Preparing Breadcrumb Topping
Combine Panko breadcrumbs with additional shredded cheddar for a crunchy topping, enhancing the dish’s texture once baked.
Broiling
Broil the assembled macaroni and cheese until the top is golden brown and crispy, rotating the baking sheet for even cooking.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli can be used, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with additional whole milk or use a mixture of milk and cream for a similar texture.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese ahead of time and refrigerate it before broiling just before serving.
Can I add meat or vegetables?
Absolutely! Cooked bacon, ham, or vegetables like broccoli or spinach can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.
Conclusion
Indulging in this creamy and cheesy macaroni dish offers a comforting experience that is hard to resist. The combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan, along with a crispy Panko topping, creates a delightful texture and flavor that will satisfy any mac and cheese lover. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
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