Creamy Mac and Cheese Supreme

Creamy Mac and Cheese Supreme takes the classic comfort dish to a whole new level of indulgence and sophistication. Imagine the rich, deep flavors of aged cheeses melded into a silky, creamy sauce, coating each al dente macaroni. The dish is transformed with the addition of aromatic herbs and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, which provides a delightful contrast to the soft, gooey pasta beneath. The aroma is intoxicating, with hints of garlic, thyme, and sharp cheddar, while the golden-brown crust on top adds a visually appealing finish. This recipe is designed to be a feast for the senses, combining classic comfort with culinary elegance.

Ingredients

Serving Size

• Serves 4

Grocery Items Needed

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon truffle oil for drizzling

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the flour and mustard powder, cooking for another minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar, Parmesan, paprika, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
7. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter and sprinkle over the macaroni.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Optional: Drizzle with truffle oil before serving for an enhanced flavor.

Expert Tips

• For a smoother cheese sauce, use room temperature milk and cheese.
• To prevent the pasta from becoming too soft, ensure it is just al dente before baking as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• For a lighter version, substitute half of the cheddar with low-fat cheese and use skim milk.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Creamy Mac and Cheese Supreme hot, straight from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp, green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables for a balanced meal. For an extra touch of luxury, pair it with a glass of full-bodied Chardonnay which complements the richness of the cheeses.

Nutrition Facts per Serving

• Calories: 870
• Total Fat: 48g
• Saturated Fat: 29g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 143mg
• Sodium: 710mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 68g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 38g
• Allergens: Milk, Wheat

We hope you enjoy creating and savoring this upgraded classic! Feel free to share your own versions or twists on this recipe, and let everyone know how you made it uniquely yours. Experimenting with different cheeses or adding in some cooked bacon or roasted vegetables can also bring new life to this beloved dish.