Name: Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 4 cups heavy cream; 4 oz cream cheese; 2 tsp garlic powder; 2 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tbsp minced garlic; 1/2 onion or shallot, finely chopped; 3 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 cups 1.5 reserved pasta water; 8 oz sharp cheddar, grated; 8 oz Gruyère, grated; 8 oz Monterey Jack, grated; Fresh chives for garnish

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Casserole

This rich, creamy mac and cheese casserole is packed with bold flavors and a mix of cheddar, Gruyère, and Monterey Jack cheeses. Layers of gooey pasta and melted cheese make this a dish that’s impossible to resist.

Author: Recipes with Jenna

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Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 50 mins Difficulty: Intermediate Cooking Temp: 350 F Servings: 8 Calories: 610

Instructions

In a saucepan over medium-low heat, add heavy cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Stir frequently until cream cheese is melted and mixture is smooth. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer while preparing the pasta.
Cook macaroni pasta according to package instructions. Drain, reserving 1.5 cups of pasta water, and set pasta aside.
In the same pot used for the pasta, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking until fragrant and softened, about 3 minutes.
Sprinkle in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
Pour the cream sauce into the roux mixture. Gradually stir in the reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
Slowly add the grated cheddar, Gruyère, and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring continuously until all cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a casserole dish, layer half of the macaroni and cheese mixture, then sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese on top.
Add the remaining pasta mixture, then top with another layer of cheese.
Bake for 10 minutes at 350°F until cheese is bubbly. Switch the oven to broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching carefully until the top is golden.
Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped chives. Serve hot!