If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than Outrageous Macaroni and Cheese. This creamy, dreamy casserole brings together tender pasta, a luscious, cheese-laden sauce, and a golden, crispy topping in absolute harmony. The combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyère, with a hint of spice, creates a swoon-worthy experience that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether it’s a family dinner or potluck, this dish is pure macaroni magic in a pan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a few simple, high-quality ingredients is the secret to making Outrageous Macaroni and Cheese utterly irresistible. Each choice here brings something special to the table—whether it’s richness, creaminess, spice, or that must-have crunchy topping.
- Elbow Macaroni (12 ounces): The classic noodle shape for the best sauce coverage and perfect bite.
- Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons): Lends richness and helps create that velvety roux for the sauce base.
- All-Purpose Flour (1/4 cup): Thickens the cheese sauce so it hugs every bit of pasta.
- Whole Milk (3 cups): Adds creaminess while keeping the sauce light and silky.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): Brings pure decadence and plush texture to the cheese sauce.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese (4 cups, shredded): Provides classic tang and melts beautifully for a gooey finish.
- Gruyère Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Offers nutty, rich flavor that makes this dish extra special.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a subtle savory boost without overwhelming the cheese.
- Onion Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Builds depth and rounds out the flavor profile.
- Smoked Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth, a faint smokiness, and gorgeous color.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing and highlighting all those cheesy notes.
- Panko Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Ensures that irresistible crunchy crown on top.
- Melted Butter (2 tablespoons): Helps the panko toast up golden and delicious.
- Parmesan Cheese (2 tablespoons, grated): Boosts flavor and browns beautifully in the oven.
- Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped, optional): For a pop of freshness and color to finish the dish.
How to Make Outrageous Macaroni and Cheese
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package directions until al dente, so the noodles hold up nicely in the sauce. Drain immediately and set aside—don’t let them get mushy!
Step 2: Make the Roux
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for just a minute or two, stirring constantly, until the raw flour smell disappears and the mixture is pale golden. This is your foundation for the creamiest cheese sauce.
Step 3: Whisk in Dairy
Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking the entire time to avoid any lumps. Keep stirring as the sauce begins to thicken—that little bit of patience pays off with a gloriously smooth base.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheese
Take the pot off the heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and Gruyère. The cheese will melt into the warm sauce, transforming everything into a luxurious, silky blend. At this point, add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, tasting as you go to hit that perfect cheesy-salty balance.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Fold the cooked macaroni into the sauce, making sure every piece is thoroughly coated and looks deliciously glossy. Pour this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, getting excited for that bubbling, golden finish!
Step 6: Add the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan until well combined. Scatter this evenly over the top of your macaroni and cheese. That buttery, cheesy panko will create an irresistible crunchy layer in the oven.
Step 7: Bake and Finish
Slide the dish into a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for the top to turn golden and the edges to get bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving, then sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like. Outrageous Macaroni and Cheese has never looked (or smelled) so good!
How to Serve Outrageous Macaroni and Cheese
Garnishes
For that extra wow factor, garnish your Outrageous Macaroni and Cheese with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. It adds a beautiful pop of color and a little herby freshness. If you want more, try a dusting of smoked paprika or even a pinch of extra Parmesan on top right before serving.
Side Dishes
This baked masterpiece pairs perfectly with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even tangy coleslaw. For heartier appetites, serve alongside grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or smoky bacon for a feast your guests will remember.
Creative Ways to Present
Make brunch extra special by spooning Outrageous Macaroni and Cheese into individual ramekins for personal servings. For parties, bake in a cast-iron skillet for rustic charm, or stir in add-ins like tomatoes or roasted peppers for your own custom twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Outrageous Macaroni and Cheese keeps beautifully. Once cooled, cover the baking dish with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to four days, making it the ultimate next-day treat.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze Outrageous Macaroni and Cheese! Assemble everything up to the breadcrumb topping, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to two months. When ready to bake, add 5-10 minutes to the cook time straight from the freezer and finish with the topping for maximum crunch.
Reheating
To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until piping hot. For single servings, a few minutes in the microwave works well—just add a splash of milk to keep it creamy. Broil for a minute at the end to revive that glorious crispy topping.
FAQs
What kind of cheese works best for Outrageous Macaroni and Cheese?
The combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyère delivers the ideal balance of flavor and meltiness. You can swap Gruyère with fontina or mozzarella for a different profile, but always use at least one strong cheese for maximum taste.
How do I keep the mac and cheese from turning out grainy?
Make sure to melt the cheese off the heat and avoid overheating once the cheese is in. Whisk well and use freshly grated cheese for the silkiest results—pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can lead to graininess.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the pasta for your favorite gluten-free elbow noodles and use a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend in the roux. Gluten-free panko or crushed rice crackers work perfectly for the topping.
Is it possible to prepare Outrageous Macaroni and Cheese in advance?
Yes! Assemble up to the baking step, keep covered in the refrigerator, and bake just before serving. Wait until just before baking to add the panko topping so it stays perfectly crunchy.
What can I add to make this mac and cheese even more outrageous?
Try mixing in crispy bacon, caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or even a swirl of hot sauce for extra depth and excitement—Outrageous Macaroni and Cheese is your blank canvas for delicious creativity!
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about homemade Outrageous Macaroni and Cheese that never fails to warm the heart—or the belly. If you’re ready for the ultimate pasta-and-cheese experience, gather your ingredients and get baking. It’s comfort food at its most epic, and your table is about to be the happiest place in the house!
Print
Outrageous Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this outrageously creamy and cheesy macaroni and cheese. Perfectly seasoned and topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, this baked mac and cheese is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Main Dish:
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a large pot over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Gruyère cheeses until melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper.
- Combine and bake: Stir in the cooked macaroni until well coated. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni and cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- For an extra flavor boost, add crispy cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms.
- You can substitute Gruyère with fontina or mozzarella if preferred.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
