How to Make the Ultimate Mac and Cheese – Classic vs. Gourmet Versions

When I think of mac and cheese, I can’t help but picture Sunday afternoons at Grandma’s house.

The whole place smelled like melted cheese and butter, and the kitchen counter was always covered in breadcrumbs and shredded cheddar.

She would stand there, stirring a bubbling pot of creamy cheese sauce, humming softly to herself. It was comfort food at its finest — simple, rich, and soul-warming.

Fast forward a few years, and I found myself trying to recreate that same nostalgia in my own kitchen.

I thought I had mastered it — until one day I tried gourmet mac and cheese at a cozy little bistro. It was nothing like Grandma’s.

It was bold, layered with flavors I didn’t even know belonged in mac and cheese — Gruyère, smoked gouda, and a hint of truffle oil. It was a revelation — still comforting, but sophisticated and indulgent.

Version 1: Classic Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, usually around 7 to 8 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has fully melted and starts to bubble, sprinkle in the flour.

Use a whisk to stir the mixture continuously for about 1 to 2 minutes, forming a smooth paste. Keep whisking until the roux turns slightly golden, but be careful not to let it brown.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

Gradually pour the whole milk into the roux while continuing to whisk vigorously to prevent lumps from forming. Keep whisking as the sauce thickens, which should take about 5 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and begin adding the shredded sharp cheddar, mild cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses, one handful at a time.

Stir well between each addition to ensure the cheese melts completely and the sauce remains smooth. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, Dijon mustard (if using), and smoked paprika. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined and the sauce is velvety.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Transfer the drained pasta into a large mixing bowl or back into the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and stir thoroughly to coat every piece. Make sure the sauce is evenly distributed and no pasta is left dry.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In a small mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to ensure the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the butter and cheese.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with a bit of butter or cooking spray. Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly.

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top, covering the pasta completely for a crunchy, golden topping.

Step 7: Bake and Serve

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. If you prefer an extra crispy topping, switch the oven to broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes, but keep a close watch to avoid burning.

Once done, remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving.

Version 2: Gourmet Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the cavatappi or orecchiette pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 9 to 11 minutes.

Stir occasionally to prevent clumping. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it thoroughly and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes, forming a smooth and light roux. The mixture should bubble gently but not brown.

Step 3: Build the Cheese Sauce

Slowly pour in the half-and-half and heavy cream while whisking continuously to ensure no lumps form. Cook the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

Lower the heat to medium-low and add the Gruyère, white cheddar, and smoked gouda cheeses, one handful at a time, stirring constantly to melt each addition fully. Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, drizzle in the truffle oil and add garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Transfer the drained pasta into the cheese sauce and stir thoroughly to coat every piece. Make sure the sauce is evenly distributed throughout the pasta.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture has a crumbly texture.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish and pour in the pasta mixture. Spread it out evenly to fill the dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top, creating a thick and even layer for a crunchy, cheesy finish.

Step 7: Bake and Finish

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly. For an even crispier crust, switch the oven to broil for 2 to 3 minutes at the end.

Be vigilant to avoid burning the topping. Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme for a touch of color and flavor.

Pairing Tips for Mac and Cheese – Classic and Gourmet Versions

Mac and cheese, whether classic or gourmet, is a hearty, cheesy dish that can stand on its own. However, when paired with the right sides and drinks, it becomes an unforgettable meal.

1. Classic Mac and Cheese Pairings

@aussiefitness High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese 🍗🧀 59g Protein Meal Prep 💪🏼 (Macros: Per Serving – 4 Total) 587 Calories 67.5gC | 9gF | 59gP Ingredients: 700g Boneless & Skinless Chicken Breast (raw weight) 1 Tsp Salt, 1 Tsp Onion Powder, 1 Tsp Smoked Paprika & 1 Tsp Garlic Powder 1 Tsp Olive Oil 25g Honey 85g Sugar Free BBQ Sauce (Hughes Sugar Free BBQ Sauce – or reduced sugar BBQ sauce) 320g Macaroni (dry weight – San Remo Elbow Pasta) 340ml Fat Free Evaporated Milk (Carnation Light & Creamy – can be substituted for low fat / fat free milk) 80g Light Cream Cheese (Philadelphia) 1.5 Tsp Chicken Stock Powder (Vegeta) 100g Grated Light Cheddar Cheese (Dairyworks Natural Cheddar Cheese) Don’t forget to check out my digital recipe cook books with over 200 easy & delicious recipes 📖👨🏻‍🍳 #macandcheese #highprotein #highproteinmeals #chicken #mealprep #Fitness #fatloss #foodie #easyrecipe #healthyrecipes ♬ original sound – Aussie Fitness 🇦🇺💪🏼

Proteins

Classic mac and cheese works wonderfully with proteins that add a savory contrast to its creamy texture. Consider serving it alongside:

• Fried or Grilled Chicken: The crispy, savory exterior of fried chicken complements the gooey mac and cheese.
• BBQ Pulled Pork: The tangy, smoky flavor of barbecue pork adds depth and balances the richness.
• Bacon or Ham: Add chopped, crispy bacon directly into the mac and cheese or serve glazed ham on the side.

Vegetables

Balance the richness of the dish with some lighter, fresh vegetable sides.

• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: The bright, crisp vegetables offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and balsamic glaze, these sprouts add a slightly bitter, caramelized flavor.
• Sautéed Spinach: Lightly seasoned and sautéed with garlic, spinach cuts through the heaviness.

Breads and Carbs

A starchy side dish can enhance the comfort factor of mac and cheese.

• Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery texture is perfect for soaking up extra cheese sauce.
• Buttermilk Biscuits: Soft, fluffy biscuits add a hearty element to the meal.
• Cornbread: Sweet, moist cornbread pairs well with the savory, cheesy flavors.

Beverages

Keep it simple and refreshing to balance out the heaviness of classic mac and cheese.

• Light Beer: A lager or pale ale complements the creaminess without overwhelming it.
• Iced Tea or Lemonade: The acidity of lemonade cuts through the rich sauce.
• Sparkling Water with a Citrus Twist: A crisp, effervescent drink refreshes your palate.

2. Gourmet Mac and Cheese Pairings

Mac & Cheese topped with BBQ Short Ribshttps://t.co/acJZjmGnMP#shortribs #BBQ #howtobbqright

— Malcom Reed (@HowToBBQRight) March 3, 2024

Proteins

For gourmet mac and cheese, elevate your protein choices to match the luxurious flavors.

• Grilled Lobster Tails: The tender, sweet meat complements truffle-infused cheese sauces.
• Roast Duck or Chicken: A roasted bird with crispy skin and a light glaze pairs beautifully.
• Beef Short Ribs: Braised in red wine, they add a deep, savory note to the gourmet version.

Vegetables

Aim for robust, roasted, or sautéed vegetables that can hold their own against the bold flavors.

• Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Adds freshness and acidity to balance the richness.
• Honey Glazed Carrots: The sweetness pairs well with aged and smoked cheeses.
• Caramelized Onions or Shallots: Add a subtle, sweet contrast to the sharpness of the cheese.

Breads and Carbs

For gourmet mac and cheese, opt for breads with a more complex flavor profile.

• Focaccia with Herbs: The airy, herb-infused bread complements rich, creamy sauces.
• Sourdough Rolls: The tanginess of sourdough balances out bold cheese flavors.
• Brioche Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots with a hint of garlic make a decadent pairing.

Beverages

Match the sophistication of gourmet mac and cheese with well-chosen drinks.

• Chardonnay: A buttery, oaky Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce, especially with Gruyère or Gouda.
• Pinot Noir: Light and fruity, this red wine pairs well with smoked cheeses and earthy flavors.
• Craft Beer: Try a smoked porter or stout to complement smoked gouda and truffle oil.
• Sparkling Rosé: Light, bubbly, and slightly sweet, this wine contrasts well with rich, cheesy pasta.

3. Salad Pairings for Both Versions

Here are some great options:

• Caesar Salad: The creamy, garlicky dressing complements the cheesy mac while offering a lighter side.
  
• Arugula and Beet Salad: Peppery arugula and earthy beets balance the richness. Add some goat cheese for an extra touch.
  
• Spinach and Strawberry Salad: Tossed with balsamic vinaigrette, the sweetness pairs well with the bold flavors of gourmet mac and cheese.
  
• Greek Salad: Cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta add a tangy, crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.

Bottom Line

Whether you lean towards the simple, comforting classic or the rich, indulgent gourmet version, mac and cheese is more than just a meal — it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and nostalgia.

The classic version wraps you in warmth with its familiar, gooey goodness, while the gourmet twist challenges your taste buds with complex layers of bold, decadent ingredients.

Pairing the right sides and drinks can take your dish from satisfying to spectacular. Whether it’s crispy fried chicken with classic mac or luxurious roasted duck alongside gourmet cheese-laden pasta, the right accompaniments amplify the experience.

From casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings, there’s a mac and cheese for every occasion.