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Joanna Gaines Mac and Cheese Recipe
Delilah Cooks

Joanna Gaines Mac and Cheese Recipe

Joanna Gaines Mac and Cheese is one of the most comforting homemade dishes you can make. This creamy pasta recipe combines rich cheese, tender macaroni, and a golden baked topping.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Dish, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Method
 

Cooking Instructions for Joanna Gaines Mac and Cheese
    Preheat the Oven
    1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and helps the mac and cheese bake evenly.
    Cook the Pasta
    1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until slightly firm. Drain well because the pasta will continue cooking later.
    Melt the Butter
    1. Place a saucepan over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt completely. Stir gently to prevent browning while preparing the creamy cheese sauce.
    Make the Roux
    1. Add flour to the melted butter. Whisk constantly for about one minute. This mixture helps thicken the sauce and creates a smooth texture.
    Add Milk and Cream
    1. Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking until smooth. Cook for several minutes until the mixture begins to thicken slightly.
    Season the Sauce
    1. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir well so the seasonings blend evenly throughout the sauce and enhance the flavor.
    Add the Cheese
    1. Reduce heat to low. Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese gradually. Stir until completely melted and smooth. The sauce should look rich and creamy.
    Combine Pasta and Sauce
    1. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir carefully until every piece of pasta is coated with the creamy mixture.
    Prepare the Topping
    1. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter in a small bowl. This topping adds a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.
    Assemble and Bake
    1. Pour the macaroni mixture into the baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumb topping evenly over the surface. Bake for 25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
    Rest Before Serving
    1. Remove the dish from the oven. Let it rest for five minutes. This allows the sauce to settle and makes serving easier.

    Notes

    • Shred cheese from a block for better melting.
    • Do not overcook the pasta.
    • Use whole milk for a richer sauce.
    • Stir cheese slowly into the sauce.
    • Let the dish rest before serving.
    • Use freshly grated cheddar cheese.
    • Add extra cheese for a richer flavor.
    • Avoid high heat when melting cheese.
    • Season the sauce before baking.
    • Serve while warm and creamy.