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Homemade John Legend’s Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe: Incredible Comfort Food Perfection


  • Total Time: 45
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

A creamy, cheesy baked macaroni and cheese dish inspired by John Legend’s family recipe, featuring three types of cheese and a buttery breadcrumb topping.


Ingredients

Scale

1 lb elbow macaroni
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter


Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Step 3: In a large saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux and cook for 2 minutes.
Step 4: Gradually whisk in milk until smooth, then cook for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
Step 6: Season cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and paprika, then fold in cooked macaroni until well coated.
Step 7: Transfer macaroni mixture to prepared baking dish.
Step 8: In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with 2 tbsp melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over macaroni.
Step 9: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Step 10: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 30
  • Category: Main Course

Nutrition

  • Calories: 520
  • Fat: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Protein: 22g