Leroy Butler Mac and Cheese Recipe
Loaded with cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, cream, and tender pasta, the Leroy Butler Mac and Cheese Recipe is pure comfort.
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Medium saucepan (for cheese sauce)
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Cheese grater (if shredding fresh cheese)
- Oven mitts
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded
- 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping
- 1 tablespoon butter for greasing dish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your 9x13-inch baking dish with butter and set aside.
Step 2: Boil the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente. You want it slightly firm because it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Roux
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour. Whisk continuously for about 1–2 minutes. The mixture should look smooth and slightly golden, but not browned. This is your roux—the base of your creamy sauce.
Step 4: Add Milk and Cream
- Slowly pour in the warmed milk while whisking constantly. This prevents lumps. Add the heavy cream and continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 4–5 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Add Seasoning and Cheese
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Gradually add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack cheeses. Stir until completely melted and silky smooth.
- Taste. Adjust salt if needed.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until every piece is coated in that creamy goodness.
Step 7: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle Parmesan evenly over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
Step 8: Rest Before Serving
- Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set slightly so you get perfect slices instead of a loose scoop.