Golden Fork Mac & Cheese
Golden Fork Mac & Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish featuring a rich blend of sharp cheddar and smooth gruyère cheeses, finished with an optional crunchy topping for extra texture and flavor.
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium Saucepan
- Whisk
- Baking dish (optional)
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni cooked al dente
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cup whole milk warmed
- 2 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded gruyère cheese
- ½ tsp mustard powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional
- salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs optional topping
Instructions
- Melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in the all-purpose flour to form a roux. Cook for about 1 minute without browning.
- Gradually whisk in the warmed whole milk until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the freshly grated sharp cheddar and shredded gruyère cheeses until completely melted. Mix in the mustard powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Fold the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
- If a baked version is preferred, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Notes
For a creamier, stovetop version, skip the baking step. Always warm the milk to prevent lumps and adjust seasonings as needed.
Nutrition
Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 18gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 10IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!