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Million Dollar Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

This creamy and dreamy Million Dollar Macaroni and Cheese Casserole is rich, cheesy, and perfect for impressing guests at any gathering.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Casserole, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Cheese Sauce

  • 16 oz elbow macaroni pasta Or any pasta of your choice.
  • 4 tbsp butter For the cheese sauce.
  • 1/4 cup flour For thickening the cheese sauce.
  • 4 cups milk Whole milk preferred for creaminess.
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Freshly shredded recommended.
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded Freshly shredded recommended.

Creamy Filling

  • 8 oz cream cheese Softened for easy mixing.
  • 1 cup sour cream Adds creaminess.
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese For rich texture.

Toppings

  • 1 cup additional cheese, shredded For topping prior to baking.
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning For flavor.
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Optional for a crunchy topping.

Instructions
 

Preparation and Assembling

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  • In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour. Cook for about a minute.
  • Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
  • Stir in the sharp cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
  • In a separate bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and ricotta until smooth for the creamy filling.
  • In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and half of the creamy filling.
  • Layer the rest of the creamy filling in the middle of the pasta mixture, then top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs.

Baking

  • Sprinkle the top with Italian seasoning.
  • Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  • Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra creaminess, cover with foil for the first half of baking. Feel free to add variations like different cheeses or add-ins such as bacon or spinach.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3g
Keyword Casserole, Cheesy Pasta, Comfort Food, Macaroni and Cheese, Potluck Dish
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