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Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe with Crispy Shallots for Ultimate Comfort

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A rich and creamy mac and cheese with a silky cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and Gruyère, topped with crispy shallots for a perfect textural contrast. This comforting dish is easy to make and perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
  • 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, divided
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups (720 ml) whole milk, warmed
  • 2 cups (200 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup (100 g) Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • 3 medium shallots, thinly sliced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying shallots

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside, tossing with a teaspoon of butter to prevent sticking.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add thinly sliced shallots and fry, stirring often, until golden brown and crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon onto paper towels to drain. Sprinkle lightly with salt.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons (28 g) of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns pale golden and smells nutty.
  4. Gradually whisk in 3 cups (720 ml) warmed whole milk, pouring slowly to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Remove sauce from heat and stir in 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar and 1 cup (100 g) shredded Gruyère until melted and smooth. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, folding gently to coat every noodle.
  7. Transfer mac and cheese to a buttered 8×8-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the crispy shallots evenly on top. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden. (Optional: skip baking and mix shallots in before serving.)
  8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta to ensure the sauce clings well. Fry shallots over medium heat and watch closely to avoid burning. Warm the milk before adding to the roux to prevent lumps. Baking is optional but adds a bubbly golden top. For gluten-free, substitute flour and pasta accordingly. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, crispy shallots, comfort food, cheesy pasta, baked mac and cheese

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/creamy-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-crispy-shallots-for-ultimate-comfort/