Ina Garten Grown Up Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ina Garten Grown Up Mac and Cheese Recipe is creamy, cheesy, and rich. This recipe elevates classic mac and cheese with Gruyère and cheddar, creating a cozy, grown-up comfort meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni – 1 pound
- Butter – 4 tablespoons
- All-purpose flour – ¼ cup
- Milk – 3 cups
- Gruyère cheese – 2 cups, grated
- Sharp cheddar cheese – 1 cup, grated
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
- Nutmeg – ¼ teaspoon
- Bread crumbs – 1 cup
Instructions
Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and make serving easier.
Cook Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until just tender. Drain and set aside.
Make Roux
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour constantly for one minute to make a smooth roux without lumps.
Prepare Sauce
- Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously until mixture thickens into a creamy sauce. Remove from heat once smooth.
Add Cheese and Seasoning
- Add grated Gruyère and cheddar cheese to the sauce. Stir until fully melted. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg for rich flavor.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce in a large bowl. Mix gently to coat each piece with creamy, cheesy goodness.
Transfer to Dish
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly for smooth top and even baking.
Add Topping
- Sprinkle bread crumbs over the top evenly. This creates a crispy, golden crust that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta inside.
Bake
- Bake in preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. The top should be golden brown and bubbling. Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for best melting and flavor
- Do not overcook pasta to keep it firm
- Add bread crumbs for a crunchy topping
- Optional: add bacon, spinach, or mushrooms for variation