Description
Creamy, garlicky, and loaded with cheesy goodness, this Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food. It’s perfect for cozy evenings, family dinners, or any time you crave a warm and satisfying meal. The combination of roasted garlic and rich Parmesan cheese gives this dish a depth of flavor that makes it unforgettable.
Ingredients
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16 ounces elbow macaroni (or any preferred pasta shape)
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced (or 2 tablespoons roasted garlic for milder flavor)
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4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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3 cups whole milk
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1 cup heavy cream
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2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon ground black pepper
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½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
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½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
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1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping)
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
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Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to create a smooth roux.
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Gradually whisk in the milk, then add the heavy cream. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 3–5 minutes.
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Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses a handful at a time, stirring until melted and smooth.
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Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, salt, and Dijon mustard (if using). Adjust seasonings to taste.
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Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until fully coated in the creamy mixture.
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(Optional) For a baked version, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. Combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
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Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
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For the creamiest sauce, shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties.
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If you love bold garlic flavor, use fresh minced garlic; for a subtle sweetness, use roasted garlic.
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For extra richness, stir in a splash of cream before serving.
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To make it ahead, prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.
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Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Add a bit of milk when reheating to keep it creamy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes