Name: Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese That'll Wow Your Taste Buds
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 16 oz Cavatappi (or fusilli or elbow macaroni); 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter (high-fat butter (at least 82% butterfat)); 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (gluten-free flour is a good alternative); 2 cup Whole Milk (or half-and-half for richer texture); 1 cup Evaporated Milk (or heavy cream/almond milk as substitutes); 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard (or yellow mustard); 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (or white pepper); 1 cup Fontina (shredded) (or gruyère as an alternative); 1 cup French Raclette (shredded) (or Comté); 1/2 cup Pecorino Romano (finely shredded) (or Parmesan); 1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs (or regular breadcrumbs); gold leaf Gold Leaf (optional for decoration)

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There’s a certain joy that comes from gathering around the dinner table, where the familiar scent of melted cheese fills the air. On a rainy afternoon, I found myself craving that warm embrace of comfort food—but not just any mac and cheese; I wanted something that would delight my taste buds and elevate my spirits. Enter Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese, a lavish take on the classic comfort dish that seamlessly marries simplicity with indulgence.

Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, this elevated version combines multiple high-quality cheeses that create a delectable, gooey interior, all topped off with a perfectly golden, crispy crust. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a gathering with friends, or simply pampering yourself after a long day, this gourmet mac and cheese is sure to impress. Join me as we dive into this luxurious recipe that transforms a childhood favorite into a show-stopping centerpiece fit for any occasion!

Why is Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese a must-try?

Decadence Redefined: This recipe turns the classic mac and cheese into an indulgent delight, using an exquisite blend of high-quality cheeses that elevate every cheesy bite.

Simple Preparation: You don’t need to be a gourmet chef—this dish comes together easily, making it perfect for both novice cooks and culinary pros.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a movie night, this dish is guaranteed to wow your guests and satisfy everyone’s cravings.

Elevated Textures: Expect a creamy, gooey center paired with a crunchy golden topping that provides the perfect contrast with each mouthful.

Versatile Base: Customize with your favorite cheeses or add extras like crispy bacon or sautéed vegetables for an even more flavorful experience!

Make this luxurious dish your go-to for special occasions or just because you deserve a little indulgence in your life!

Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create your own Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese masterpiece.

For the Pasta
• Cavatappi – This spiral pasta shape beautifully holds onto the creamy cheese sauce; you can also use fusilli or elbow macaroni.

For the Cheese Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – A high-fat butter (at least 82% butterfat) contributes to a rich and creamy sauce; consider European-style butter for extra flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the cheese sauce for that luxurious creamy consistency; gluten-free flour is a great alternative.
• Whole Milk – Adds creaminess; you can opt for half-and-half for richer texture or non-dairy milk for a vegan version.
• Evaporated Milk – Enhances the flavor and creaminess of the sauce; heavy cream or almond milk can be used as substitutes.
• Dijon Mustard – Introduces a delightful tanginess; yellow mustard can work in a pinch or omit it for a milder taste.
• Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning the dish; swap with white pepper for a distinct flavor.

For the Cheeses
• Fontina (shredded) – This melting cheese creates a wonderfully creamy texture; gruyère can also be used as an alternative.
• French Raclette (shredded) – A rich cheese known for its meltability; Comté or a mix of creamy cheeses are great substitutes.
• Pecorino Romano (finely shredded) – Provides a sharp accent flavor; Parmesan serves as a milder option.

For the Topping
• Panko Bread Crumbs – Delivers an irresistible crispy topping for your mac & cheese; regular breadcrumbs can be used but won’t be as crunchy.
• Gold Leaf (optional) – Adds a touch of elegance to your dish; feel free to leave it out if you’re short on hand.

Gather these ingredients to embark on a culinary adventure with your Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese, and prepare to impress those taste buds!

How to Make Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat a baking dish with cooking spray. This prepares the dish for that perfect golden crust.
Cook the cavatappi in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside, making sure it’s not overcooked.
Melt the unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux, cooking until it turns slightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.
Whisk in the whole milk and evaporated milk gradually, then allow it to simmer. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon—this usually takes around 3-5 minutes.
Stir in the Dijon mustard, black pepper, and all three cheeses until they melt completely and form a creamy sauce. This is the moment when you’ll start to feel that mouth-watering aroma!
Combine the cavatappi with the cheesy sauce, ensuring every pasta shell is well-coated. Transfer this delightful mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Toast the panko breadcrumbs in a skillet over medium heat with a little butter until they’re golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Then, evenly sprinkle them over the mac & cheese for that perfect crunch.
Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. If you have gold leaf, feel free to garnish the dish right before serving for an extra touch of elegance!

Optional: Drizzle with a bit of truffle oil for an indulgent finish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the cavatappi up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain the creamy texture, cover the cheese sauce with plastic wrap pressed directly against the surface before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, combine the pasta and sauce, transfer to a baking dish, top with toasted panko breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. This allows you to enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal last-minute effort!

What to Serve with Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese?

Whether you’re indulging in a family feast or hosting a cozy gathering, this mac and cheese sets the stage for delightful meal pairings.

Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy pasta.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavors of toasted bread perfectly complement the cheesy goodness, providing both texture and flavor balance.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a sweet and earthy element, giving you a colorful and nutritious side dish to brighten your plate.
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: For an upscale touch, this savory side brings a wonderful crunch and a delightful taste that pairs well with the creamy mac.
Grilled Chicken: Juicy, grilled chicken drizzled with a tangy sauce can elevate your meal, making it heartier and bringing a lovely contrast of flavor.
White Wine: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, cuts through the richness of the macaroni and cheese, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Chocolate Lava Cake: Round off your indulgent meal with a warm and gooey chocolate dessert, offering a rich end note to a luxurious dining experience.

How to Store and Freeze Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese

Fridge: Store leftover Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Allow to cool completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through for best results.

Baking Again: If reheating in the oven, consider covering with foil for the first half to prevent over-browning of the topping, then remove to crisp it up.

Helpful Tricks for Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese

Pasta Perfection: Always cook your cavatappi al dente; it will absorb the cheese sauce without becoming mushy during baking.
Butter Matters: Opt for high-fat unsalted butter (at least 82% butterfat) for a richer cheese sauce, enhancing the indulgent nature of your Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese.
Sauce Simmering: Don’t rush the thickening of your cheese sauce—allowing it to simmer gently ensures the perfect creamy consistency.
Crispy Topping: Toast the panko breadcrumbs in butter before sprinkling them over the mac and cheese for a crunchy, golden finish that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
Cheese Selection: Feel free to mix cheeses based on your preferences; just make sure they melt well for a luxurious mouthfeel that enhances the overall dish.
Stay Observant: Keep an eye on the breadcrumbs while baking; if they start to brown too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent burning.

Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese Variations

Feel free to personalize your dish with these exciting twists that will elevate your Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese into a whole new realm of deliciousness!

Cheese Swap: Replace traditional cheeses with brie or camembert for a richer, creamier flavor that melts beautifully.
Creating a luxurious experience, these cheeses add an indulgence that’s simply irresistible.
Meat Addition: Stir in crispy, cooked bacon or pancetta for an extra layer of savory goodness.
The crunchy bits contribute a delightful texture and salty kick that makes every bite sing.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed spinach or roasted broccoli for a colorful, nutritious twist.
This not only adds a pop of green but also a fresh flavor that balances the creaminess.
Spicy Kick: Mix in jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy zip that tantalizes your taste buds.
This fiery addition can take your comfort food and transform it into a dynamite dish.
Flavorful Herbs: Sprinkle in fresh chives or parsley before serving for a bright, herbaceous note.
The freshness of the herbs enhances the richness of the cheese and adds beautiful color to your dish.
Pasta Variety: Switch up the shape of pasta by trying penne or rigatoni for a unique twist on texture.
Different pastas can hold the sauce differently, creating new experiences in every cheesy bite.
Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted walnuts or pecans for an unexpected crunch that complements the creamy sauce.
This nutty topping adds a delightful surprise with each spoonful, enhancing your mac & cheese adventure.
Truffle Infusion: Drizzle truffle oil over your finished dish for an elegant, decadent finish.
The earthy aroma of truffles elevates the entire experience, making it perfect for special occasions.

Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese Recipe FAQs

What type of pasta is best for Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese?
Cavatappi is the ideal choice for its spiral shape, which holds onto the cheesy sauce beautifully. However, you can also use fusilli or elbow macaroni if you prefer. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when baked.

How should I store leftover Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess, and warm it gently in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Can I freeze Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese?
Absolutely! To freeze, let your Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What can I do if my cheese sauce isn’t thickening properly?
If your cheese sauce isn’t thickening after whisking in the milk and evaporated milk, continue to simmer it while stirring often. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. If it still seems too thin, you can create a slurry by mixing an additional tablespoon of flour with a little cold water and whisk it in.

Is there a way to adapt this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Yes! To accommodate gluten-free diets, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free option. For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy milk and a combination of plant-based cheeses that melt well. Always read labels to avoid cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.

Can I add extra ingredients to my Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese?
The more the merrier! You can enhance your dish by adding cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or even truffle oil for an indulgent touch. Just be mindful of how these additions might influence the overall texture and cheese sauce.