Adult Mac and Cheese Recipe
A creamy, gourmet twist on classic mac and cheese, featuring bold cheeses, a splash of wine, and optional crispy topping for grown-up comfort food.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni or cavatappi
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- ½ cup dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, optional
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- ¾ cup Gruyère cheese shredded (or fontina)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp smoked paprika or cayenne
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- 4 slices cooked bacon crumbled (or prosciutto)
- 1 cup sautéed mushrooms
Topping:
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook macaroni until al dente (6-8 minutes). Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
- Make the roux: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Build the sauce: Gradually whisk in milk and white wine (if using). Cook, stirring, until thickened (3-5 minutes). Add reserved pasta water if too thick.
- Add cheese and seasonings: Lower heat. Stir in cheddar, Gruyère, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Combine: Add cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring to coat. Mix in bacon or mushrooms if using.
- Bake (optional): Preheat oven to 375°F. Transfer to a greased 9x13 dish. Mix panko, melted butter, and Parmesan. Sprinkle over pasta and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley or extra bacon and serve hot.
Notes
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk.
- Substitutions: Use gluten-free flour and pasta or plant-based milk and vegan cheese for dietary needs.
- Make Ahead: Prepare up to baking step and refrigerate for 2 days. Add topping and bake before serving.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or cayenne for heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip meat and add roasted broccoli or spinach.