Million Dollar Mac And Cheese Recipe

I m so excited to share this Million Dollar Mac And Cheese Recipe with you because it s truly the ultimate comfort food upgrade. This isn t your everyday mac and cheese; it s rich, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection with a crunchy panko topping that makes every bite just melt in your mouth. Whenever I make this, it s like the whole house fills with this irresistible aroma that just draws everyone to the kitchen.

You ll find that this recipe works perfectly for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or even when you just want to treat yourself to something special. What makes this Million Dollar Mac And Cheese Recipe stand out is the blend of multiple cheeses and a touch of smoked Gouda that adds a wonderfully complex flavor. Trust me, once you try this, it ll be your go-to recipe anytime you crave something indulgent but comforting.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Million Dollar Mac And Cheese Recipe works together to create a smooth, cheesy sauce with just the right seasoning. When you re shopping, look for fresh, high-quality cheeses-you ll taste the difference!

• Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted lets you control the saltiness perfectly throughout the dish.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style crumbs get wonderfully crispy when toasted, adding great texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh Parmesan boosts umami and pairs beautifully with the other cheeses.
• Dried Italian Seasoning: Adds a subtle herbaceous note to the crunchy topping.
• Kosher Salt: Essential to season both sauce and topping precisely.
• All-Purpose Flour: This helps thicken the cheese sauce into that luscious, smooth consistency.
• Whole Milk and Half-and-Half: Warmed before adding, they make the sauce creamy without clumps.
• Dry Mustard Powder: A secret ingredient that sharpens and balances the cheesy richness.
• Garlic Powder: Brings a subtle, savory kick without overpowering.
• Cayenne Pepper: Just a hint adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• Sharp Yellow Cheddar Cheese: The backbone of the dish, for that classic mac and cheese tang.
• Smoked Gouda Cheese: Gives a mild smoky twist that makes this mac extra special.
• Colby-Jack Cheese: Melt-friendly and mild; part goes in the sauce, part sprinkled on top.
• Short Curly Pasta (like cavatappi or elbow): Holds sauce beautifully and is fun to eat.
• Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese: Added for stretchiness and melty goodness, split between layers.

Variations

One of the things I love most about this Million Dollar Mac And Cheese Recipe is how easy it is to customize it to your tastes or dietary needs. You can tweak the cheeses, swap the pasta, or even add in some extras to make it your own.

• Vegetable Boost: I like adding steamed broccoli or roasted cauliflower for a little extra nutrition and texture contrast-my family doesn t even notice the veggies hidden in there!
• Spicy Kick: If you love heat, try adding chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce; it livens things up beautifully.
• Dairy-Free Version: I ve experimented with dairy-free cheeses and plant-based milks for friends with sensitivities; while flavor changes a bit, the texture stays creamy and satisfying.
• Breadcrumb Topping Swap: If you don t have panko, crushed Ritz crackers or regular breadcrumbs toasted with butter work well too.

How to Make Million Dollar Mac And Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Panko Topping

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 13- x 9-inch baking dish with a tablespoon of the softened butter. Then melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat and stir in the panko breadcrumbs. Keep stirring frequently so the panko toasts evenly, usually about 2 to 3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Transfer these to a bowl to cool, then mix in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt. This crunchy topping adds that irresistible million-dollar crunch that everyone will love.

Step 2: Make the Roux and Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet (you can wipe it clean if breadcrumbs stuck), melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook, whisking constantly, until the mix bubbles and turns a light golden brown-this usually takes about 2 minutes and gives a lovely toasty flavor essential for the sauce. Gradually whisk in the warm milk and half-and-half, keeping the mixture smooth as it thickens-this can take 4 to 5 minutes over medium heat. Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in the dry mustard, garlic powder, cayenne, and remaining salt. Finally, add the Cheddar, smoked Gouda, and a cup of Colby-Jack, whisking in small handfuls until the sauce is gloriously smooth.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce, Layer with Cheese

Toss the cooked, al dente pasta into the cheese sauce until every twist is coated perfectly. Spread half the pasta mixture in your buttered baking dish, then sprinkle with a cup of mozzarella and half a cup of the remaining Colby-Jack cheese. Layer the rest of the pasta on top, then add the remaining mozzarella and Colby-Jack cheese evenly across the surface. This layering ensures the mac and cheese stays melty and ooey-gooey all the way through.

Step 4: Add Topping and Bake to Perfection

Sprinkle the reserved panko mixture evenly over the top-it s the final touch that gives this dish its signature crispiness. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, keeping an eye on it, and covering loosely with foil if it starts to brown too quickly. Once bubbly and golden, let it rest on a wire rack for 10 minutes-this resting step helps the mac set up so it s easier to serve. Trust me, it s worth the wait!

How to Serve Million Dollar Mac And Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple with fresh chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top for a pop of color and freshness that cuts through the richness. Sometimes I add a little crumbled cooked bacon or a drizzle of truffle oil if I m feeling fancy. These garnishes add extra layers without overwhelming the creamy, cheesy base.

Side Dishes

This Million Dollar Mac And Cheese Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus. For heartier meals, I love serving it alongside BBQ pulled pork or grilled chicken. The contrast between smoky meat and cheesy pasta is always a win.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I ve baked this mac and cheese in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets, which make for a fun presentation and perfect personal servings. Ribboned rows baked in a decorative casserole dish also impress guests. You can even top with extra panko and dot small pats of butter before baking to achieve an ultra-golden crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I recommend letting the mac and cheese cool completely before covering it tightly and storing in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully if you follow a few simple tips below.

Freezing

I have frozen this dish a few times with great results-just portion it into freezer-safe containers and wrap well to avoid freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor retention.

Reheating

My favorite way to reheat is in the oven at 350°F, covered loosely with foil to keep moisture in, for about 20 minutes until hot and bubbly. If you re in a hurry, the microwave works too-just stir halfway through to heat evenly and keep some of the sauce creamy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Million Dollar Mac And Cheese Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it transforms a simple, nostalgic comfort food into something truly indulgent and memorable. Whether you re feeding family or guests, I know you ll enjoy the creamy sauce, delightful mix of cheeses, and crispy topping as much as we do. So go ahead, make a big batch, sit back, and savor every cheesy, crunchy bite-you deserve it!

Million Dollar Mac And Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 136 reviews

• Author: Jaden
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 10 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Million Dollar Mac And Cheese is a rich and creamy baked pasta dish layered with a decadent blend of sharp Cheddar, smoked Gouda, Colby-Jack, and mozzarella cheeses. Topped with a golden, crispy Parmesan and panko breadcrumb crust infused with Italian seasoning, this indulgent comfort food recipe is perfect for gatherings or a special family dinner.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

Butter and Topping

• 1/2 cup (4 oz.) unsalted butter, softened, divided
• 3/4 cup panko (Japanese-style breadcrumbs)
• 2 oz. Parmesan cheese, grated (about 1/2 cup)
• 1 tsp. dried Italian seasoning
• 2 1/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided

Cheese Sauce

• 1/4 cup (about 1 1/8 oz.) all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups warm whole milk (about 110°F)
• 1 1/2 cups warm half-and-half (about 110°F)
• 2 tsp. dry mustard (such as Colman’s)
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
• 8 oz. sharp yellow Cheddar cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)
• 4 oz. smoked Gouda cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
• 8 oz. Colby-Jack cheese, shredded (about 2 cups), divided
• 8 oz. low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded (about 2 cups), divided

Pasta

• 1 (16-oz.) pkg. short, curly pasta (such as cavatappi or elbow), cooked to al dente according to package directions

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Instructions

1. Prepare oven and baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 13- x 9-inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of the softened butter to prevent sticking and aid in browning.
2. Make panko topping: Melt 3 tablespoons of the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in panko breadcrumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until they become lightly golden and toasted, about 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer the toasted panko to a small bowl and let it cool completely for about 10 minutes. Once cooled, mix in grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, and 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt. Set this topping mixture aside and wipe the skillet clean.
3. Make roux: In the cleaned skillet, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour continuously, cooking until the mixture is bubbly, light brown, and gives off a toasty aroma, about 2 minutes. This roux will thicken your cheese sauce.
4. Add milk and half-and-half: Gradually whisk in the warm whole milk and half-and-half into the roux, stirring continuously to ensure a smooth sauce. Cook over medium heat, whisking often, until the mixture simmers and thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, which should take about 4 to 5 minutes.
5. Add seasonings and cheeses: Remove the skillet from heat. Whisk in the dry mustard, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and the remaining 2 teaspoons of kosher salt until the mixture is well combined. Then gradually whisk in the shredded sharp Cheddar, smoked Gouda, and 1 cup of the Colby-Jack cheese, adding the cheese in increments to melt completely and create a smooth cheese sauce.
6. Fill baking dish: Stir the cooked, al dente pasta into the cheese sauce ensuring every piece is evenly coated. Spread half of this pasta mixture (about 5 cups) into the greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup of the remaining Colby-Jack cheese over the layer. Next, add the remaining pasta mixture (about 5 cups) on top and sprinkle evenly with the remaining 1 cup mozzarella and 1/2 cup Colby-Jack cheese.
7. Add panko topping: Sprinkle the prepared panko mixture evenly over the top layer of pasta and cheese for a crunchy, flavorful crust after baking.
8. Bake macaroni and cheese: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake until the pasta mixture is bubbly around the edges, about 25 to 30 minutes. If the top begins to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil to prevent overbrowning. After baking, remove the dish and let it rest on a wire rack at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to allow the cheese sauce to set properly.

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Notes

• Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to avoid a mushy macaroni and cheese.
• Using warm milk and half-and-half helps prevent lumps in the cheese sauce.
• The cayenne pepper adds a subtle spicy kick; adjust the quantity to your preference.
• Loosely covering with foil during baking helps avoid excessively browned topping.
• Letting the dish rest after baking improves texture and flavor melding.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 460
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 710mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0.3g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 85mg