Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Cooking and Assembly
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni for 1 minute less than package directions until al dente. Drain well without rinsing.
- Melt the unsalted butter in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a pale golden paste.
- Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in the salt, pepper, and dry mustard. Gradually fold in the sharp cheddar and American cheese until completely melted into a thick, glossy bright yellow-orange sauce.
- Fold the plump cooked macaroni noodles into the cheese sauce until heavily coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 rustic ceramic baking dish. Top evenly with the Colby Jack and Parmesan cheese blend. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Turn the oven to broil for the final 2-3 minutes. Watch closely until the top features a beautifully baked, slightly charred and bubbly crust with tones of golden brown.
Nutrition
Notes
Always grate your cheese fresh from the block. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that ruin the glossy texture.
Watch the broiler carefully; the cheese crust can burn in a matter of seconds.
Watch the broiler carefully; the cheese crust can burn in a matter of seconds.
