Description
A classic Macaroni Au Gratin recipe featuring creamy cheddar and Gruyère cheese sauce baked with a crispy breadcrumb topping. This comforting casserole is easy to prepare and perfect as a hearty side dish or a satisfying main meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or other pasta shapes)
Cheese Sauce
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for a crispy topping)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (melted, for topping)
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain thoroughly and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to form a smooth roux without browning. Slowly add the whole milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low, add shredded sharp cheddar and Gruyère (or mozzarella) cheese, and stir until completely melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, Dijon mustard (if using), and garlic powder to enhance the flavor.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and gently stir to evenly coat all the pasta with the creamy cheese mixture.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of melted unsalted butter until evenly combined, creating a crispy topping mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the cheesy macaroni mixture into a greased 9×9-inch or 2-quart baking dish. Evenly spread the buttered breadcrumb mixture over the top, and sprinkle with a dash of paprika for added color if desired.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling, indicating the casserole is hot and perfectly cooked.
- Serve & Enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This Macaroni Au Gratin is delicious as a comforting main dish or served as a side alongside roasted meats or holiday meals.
Notes
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier topping texture.
- You can substitute Gruyère with mozzarella for a milder flavor.
- Adjust seasoning with more or less salt and pepper based on taste.
- Dijon mustard is optional but enhances the depth of flavor in the cheese sauce.
- Allow the casserole to cool briefly before serving to set the sauce and avoid burning.
