Here’s a recipe for Million Dollar Mac and Cheese, a rich, creamy, and indulgent mac and cheese that’s sure to be a hit at any meal! It’s packed with flavor from the combination of cheeses and a buttery, creamy sauce.
Million Dollar Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice)
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
Instructions:
-
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. -
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk it together with the butter to create a roux. Cook this for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. -
Add the Liquids:
Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to ensure there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens. -
Add the Cheeses and Seasonings:
Reduce the heat to low and begin adding the shredded sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the sour cream for extra creaminess. -
Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is completely coated in the cheesy goodness. -
Transfer to a Baking Dish:
If you’d like to bake it for a crispy top, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. -
Add the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs) with a little melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. -
Bake (Optional):
If baking, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the mac and cheese for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You’ll have a creamy, cheesy, and decadent dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
This Million Dollar Mac and Cheese is incredibly creamy with layers of cheese flavor. The crispy Ritz cracker topping adds a nice contrast to the rich and smooth mac and cheese. It’s sure to be a favorite for family dinners or potlucks. Would you like to add any extra seasonings or ingredients, like bacon or vegetables, to make it your own?
