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Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese

Indulge in Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese for Ultimate Comfort

Experience the creamy and luxurious Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese, a perfect comfort dish for gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Cavatappi can substitute with elbow macaroni or shells
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter optional to use European-style
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 2 cups Whole Milk can use 2% as an alternative
  • 1 can Evaporated Milk
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard can substitute with yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
For the Cheese Blend
  • 1 cup Fontina can use Gruyère or Gouda as substitutes
  • 1 cup French Raclette can substitute with comté or Camembert
  • 1/2 cup Pecorino Romano can use Parmesan if preferred
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs can use regular breadcrumbs if necessary
  • gold leaf optional Gold Leaf for decoration, optional

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • colander
  • Skillet
  • baking dish
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add salt, then cook the cavatappi according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Melt half of the unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat, whisk in the flour until smooth and cook until lightly golden.
  3. Gradually whisk in whole milk and evaporated milk, stirring frequently until thick and creamy, then add mustard and pepper followed by the cheese blend until melted.
  4. Fold the drained cavatappi into the cheese sauce, ensuring all pasta is coated.
  5. Melt the remaining butter in a skillet and toast the panko until golden brown.
  6. Spread the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish, top with toasted panko, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
  7. Let cool for a few minutes, optionally garnish with gold leaf, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 20gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For maximum flavor, use freshly shredded cheese and avoid overcooking the pasta. Consider adding crispy bacon or sautéed vegetables for extra flavor.

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