Creamy Baked Mac And Cheese With Smoked Paprika Swirl

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Creamy Baked Mac And Cheese With Smoked Paprika Swirl 1767819079.5057642

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Creamy Baked Mac And Cheese With Smoked Paprika Swirl 1767819079.5057642

recipe creamy baked mac and cheese

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  • Author: Madison Clarke
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: General
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Description

Indulge in a luxuriously creamy baked mac and cheese featuring a vibrant smoked paprika swirl and a golden, herb-infused panko topping. This elevated classic is perfect for any occasion, offering a sophisticated twist on a beloved comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 250g (9oz) elbow macaroni
  • 30g (2 Tbsp) unsalted butter, divided
  • 30g (2 Tbsp) all-purpose flour
  • 250ml (1 cup) whole milk
  • 150ml (2⁄3 cup) heavy cream
  • 200g (7oz) sharp cheddar cheese, grated, divided
  • 100g (3½oz) mozzarella cheese, grated
  • 30g (1oz) Parmesan cheese, grated, divided
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp ground mustard (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 large shallot, thinly sliced
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 30g (2 Tbsp) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 Tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 Tbsp fresh chives, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F) and grease a baking dish.
  2. Cook Macaroni: Boil macaroni for 7 minutes until al dente; drain.
  3. Create Roux: Melt butter, whisk in flour for 1 minute.
  4. Build Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in milk and cream; thicken for 4-5 minutes.
  5. Incorporate Cheeses: Remove from heat; stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, paprika, and seasoning.
  6. Paprika Swirl Sauce: Divide sauce; add paprika, cheddar, and Parmesan to one half.
  7. Combine & Transfer: Add macaroni to plain sauce; transfer to dish.
  8. Swirl Paprika Sauce: Drop spoonfuls of paprika sauce and swirl gently.
  9. Prepare Topping: Sauté shallots in butter and oil until golden.
  10. Toast Crumbs: Toss panko, thyme, and Parmesan with shallots; toast until fragrant.
  11. Top & Bake: Sprinkle topping over mac and cheese; bake for 20-25 minutes.
  12. Rest & Garnish: Rest for 5 minutes; garnish with chives.

Notes

For an extra crispy topping, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully. Grating your own cheese ensures a smoother melt.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Pasta
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg

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