Easy Gruyere Mac and Cheese
Ultra-creamy stovetop mac and cheese loaded with nutty Gruyere and a touch of Dijon for balance. Finished with buttery crumbs.
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Servings:
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter for the sauce
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour for the roux
- 2.75 cup whole milk warmed
- 0.5 cup heavy cream warmed
- 11 oz Gruyere cheese, shredded freshly grated melts best
- 4.5 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded for flavor balance
- 1.25 tsp Dijon mustard
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 0.12 tsp ground nutmeg a pinch
- 1.25 tsp kosher salt plus more to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 0.75 cup panko breadcrumbs for topping
- 1.5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted for crumbs
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan optional, for crumbs
- 0.5 cup reserved pasta water as needed for thinning
- 1 tbsp chopped chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil.
- Boil macaroni until just shy of al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Stir panko with melted butter and Parmesan in a skillet; toast until lightly golden. Set aside.
- Melt the butter for the sauce in a medium pot over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook, stirring, until blond and nutty, about 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in warm milk and cream. Simmer, whisking, until thick enough to coat a spoon.
- Season the sauce with salt, pepper, Dijon, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Adjust salt to taste.
- Take off heat. Stir in Gruyere and cheddar until smooth and glossy.
- Fold in drained pasta. Loosen with a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
- Serve hot, topped with toasted crumbs and a sprinkle of chives or parsley.
Notes
Variation: Stir in cooked bacon bits or caramelized onions with the pasta for a smokier, savory twist. Try a pinch of smoked paprika or a drizzle of truffle oil before serving.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days. Rewarm gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Gruyere Mac and Cheese flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.