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Loaded Mac & Cheese Deep Dish

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Loaded Mac & Cheese Deep Dish is a rich, casserole-style comfort food combining creamy, cheesy pasta with savory add-ins like bacon or steak, baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni or rigatoni
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1 cup cooked bacon or diced cooked steak
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 1 tbsp melted butter (for breadcrumbs)
  • 1 egg
  • Optional: sour cream or whipped cream for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a deep 9-inch round or springform pan.
  2. Cook pasta until just al dente, drain, and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk and cream; simmer until thickened.
  5. Stir in cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses until melted.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Remove from heat.
  7. Add cooked pasta and chopped steak or bacon to the cheese sauce.
  8. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and mix into the cooled mixture.
  9. Pour mixture into prepared pan.
  10. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top.
  11. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  12. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Top with sour cream or whipped cream if desired.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and texture.
  • Let the dish cool before slicing for clean cuts.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit meat and add vegetables.
  • Add a cornbread crust for extra texture.
  • Store leftovers in fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months.

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