Alton Brown Mac and Cheese Recipe
Alton Brown's Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a savory, easy-to-make dish that combines sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses with a hint of mustard and paprika, all topped with buttery panko breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch. This comforting classic is perfect for any occasion.
Equipment
- 1 4-quart casserole or souffle dish
- 1 4-quart pot
- 1 3-quart saucepan
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Colander
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon plus 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt divided
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked or regular paprika
- 3 cups half-and-half
- 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese grated
- 5 ounces Monterey Jack cheese grated
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Topping:
- 3 ounces Monterey Jack cheese grated
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350ºF.
- Grease a 4-quart casserole or souffle dish and set aside.
- Place dry pasta and 1 tablespoon of the kosher salt in a 4-quart pot and barely cover with cold water.
- Bring just to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally, then test for doneness; you're looking for al dente, about 9 to 10 minutes.
- Drain pasta in a colander but do not rinse.
- Meanwhile, melt the butter in a 3-quart saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is pale blond, about 3 minutes.
- Whisk in the mustard and paprika, and cook until aromatic, about another minute.
- Whisk in the half-and-half, increase the heat to medium-high, and cook, whisking often, until mixture is slightly thickened, 7 to 8 minutes.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in the cheeses, remaining salt, and pepper.
- Fold in the macaroni and move to the prepared dish.
- Sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- Toss the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and distribute evenly over the top.
- Bake until golden on top, but not dried out, 15 to 20 minutes.
- Cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Video
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Variations: For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon bits or caramelized onions before baking.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
