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
Scale
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.
