If you are searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Delmonico Mac & Cheese Recipe is an absolute must-try. Rich, creamy, and perfectly cheesy, this timeless classic transforms simple elbow macaroni into a sumptuous meal that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe delivers layers of flavor and that delightful crispy topping everyone adores. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again, sharing the love and deliciousness with friends and family alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Delmonico Mac & Cheese Recipe lies in its simplicity and choice of ingredients. Each component plays a critical role in building the perfect balance of creamy texture, bold flavor, and just the right amount of crunch on top.
- 8-oz elbow macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds sauce beautifully for that perfect bite.
- 1 cup milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a smooth base for the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Brings richness and velvety texture to the cheese sauce.
- 1 tsp dry mustard: Gives a subtle tang and complexity that enhances the cheese flavor.
- 1 tsp salt: Balances and amplifies all the other flavors.
- ¼ tsp garlic powder: Adds a hint of warmth that deepens the overall taste.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Provides a gentle kick and aromatic spice.
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient, delivering sharp and melty cheesiness.
- 2 Tbsp panko bread crumbs: Creates a satisfyingly crispy topping with a golden finish.
- 2 Tbsp parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a nutty, savory crust that’s irresistible.
How to Make Delmonico Mac & Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350º F and lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. This step ensures your mac and cheese will bake evenly and come out with a perfect golden crust without sticking to the pan.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil the elbow macaroni until it reaches al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through. Properly cooked pasta is essential here because it won’t turn mushy during baking, holding the sauce beautifully later on.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, dry mustard, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer and wait until the sauce starts to thicken. This thickening is the key to that luscious texture we crave in any mac and cheese.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Once your sauce has thickened slightly, lower the heat and start stirring in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep mixing until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is silky smooth, enveloping all those flavors into one irresistible base.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Take your cooked pasta and stir it gently into the cheese sauce, making sure every elbow macaroni is coated in that creamy goodness. Then, pour this heavenly mixture into your prepared baking pan.
Step 6: Topping Time
Sprinkle the panko bread crumbs evenly across the top, followed by the parmesan cheese. This combination creates the signature crunchy topping that contrasts so beautifully with the creamy mac.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Place your dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the bubbling cheese sauce smells absolutely divine, calling everyone to the table.
How to Serve Delmonico Mac & Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Delmonico Mac & Cheese Recipe, consider sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives on top right before serving. These bright green herbs add a lovely pop of color and a fresh note that balances the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or even roasted meats. These lighter or savory sides complement the creamy, cheesy indulgence without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve portions of Delmonico Mac & Cheese Recipe inside hollowed-out mini bell peppers or ramekins for individual servings. You can even top with a drizzle of hot sauce or crispy bacon bits to create personalized flavor experiences for your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Delmonico Mac & Cheese Recipe should be cooled completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for quick meals later.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled mac and cheese to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350º F until warmed through, usually about 15-20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out, and remove the foil near the end to refresh the crumb topping’s crunch.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in the Delmonico Mac & Cheese Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, mixing in gouda, gruyere, or even mozzarella can add new depth and creaminess. Just remember to choose cheeses that melt well for the best results.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap out the elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free bread crumbs for the topping. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How spicy is the Delmonico Mac & Cheese Recipe?
This recipe is mild and creamy, with only a subtle kick from the black pepper and dry mustard. If you like spice, adding a pinch of cayenne or some hot sauce on the side works great.
Can I prepare the dish in advance and bake later?
Definitely! You can assemble the whole dish and refrigerate it uncovered for a few hours before baking. This is perfect for busy days or when entertaining guests.
What makes the Delmonico Mac & Cheese Recipe different from regular mac and cheese?
What sets this recipe apart is the use of dry mustard and a combination of milk plus heavy cream, which creates an extra-rich, flavorful sauce, along with the parmesan-panko topping for that perfect crunch.
Final Thoughts
The Delmonico Mac & Cheese Recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of comfort food done right. From the creamy cheese sauce to the crunchy topping, every bite delivers joy and satisfaction. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe yourself and make it a beloved part of your home cooking tradition. Once you do, it’s sure to become one of those dishes you reach for whenever you want something truly special and comforting.
Print
Delmonico Mac & Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delmonico Mac & Cheese is a creamy, cheesy baked pasta dish featuring tender elbow macaroni smothered in a rich cheddar cheese sauce, topped with a crispy blend of panko bread crumbs and parmesan cheese. Perfectly baked until golden and bubbly, this classic comfort food serves eight and is ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
Sauce
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dry mustard
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Topping
- 2 Tbsp panko bread crumbs
- 2 Tbsp parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350º F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside.
- Make Sauce: In a large saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, dry mustard, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Heat over medium-high heat until the mixture comes to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer gently until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
- Melt Cheese: Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the thickened sauce and stir over medium-low heat until the cheese fully melts and you have a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta thoroughly.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the panko bread crumbs and parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole to form a crunchy crust.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbly.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese.
- You can substitute panko with regular bread crumbs if needed, though panko adds extra crispiness.
- To make ahead, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it; bake when ready to serve, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if baking cold.
- If you prefer, sprinkle a little paprika or cayenne pepper for a subtle kick in the cheese sauce.
- To ensure the pasta is not overcooked, test a piece a minute or two before the package’s stated time.
