Macaroni and Cheese for 20 25

Perfect for feeding a crowd, this indulgent Macaroni and Cheese for 20-25 combines three luscious cheeses—sharp cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan—for a rich and creamy sauce that elevates this classic comfort food. With 5 pounds of tender elbow macaroni drenched in a velvety, homemade cheese sauce, this recipe is finished with a golden breadcrumb topping for irresistible crunch. Ready in just over an hour, it's ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday feasts. Optional garnishes like paprika and ground mustard add a customizable flair, making this baked mac and cheese both versatile and unforgettable.

Nutriscore Rating: 59/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:70 mins

Servings: 25

Ingredients

• 5 pounds Elbow macaroni
• 1.5 cups Unsalted butter
• 1.5 cups All-purpose flour
• 1.5 gallons Whole milk
• 3 cups Heavy cream
• 10 cups Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 5 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded
• 2 cups Parmesan cheese, grated
• 3 tablespoons Salt
• 2 teaspoons Black pepper
• 2 teaspoons Ground mustard (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Paprika (for garnish, optional)
• 2 cups Panko breadcrumbs (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease two large baking dishes or foil trays and set aside.

Step 2

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour to make a roux and continue whisking for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 4

Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and whisk for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

Step 5

Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the shredded cheddar, shredded Gruyere, and grated Parmesan. Mix until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 6

Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and optional ground mustard. Taste and adjust the seasonings as necessary.

Step 7

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.

Step 8

Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dishes, spreading it out evenly.

Step 9

If using, top the macaroni with an even layer of panko breadcrumbs for added crunch.

Step 10

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 11

Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with paprika for garnish if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	11315.5 grams (11315.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	24925

Total Fat 1212.00g	1554%
Saturated Fat 709.20g	3546%
Polyunsaturated Fat 6.30g
Cholesterol 3754mg	1251%
Sodium 39171mg	1703%
Total Carbohydrate 2373.70g	863%
Dietary Fiber 96.50g	345%
Total Sugars 371.40g
Protein 1065.20g	2130%

Vitamin D 2934IU	14670%
Calcium 22533mg	1733%
Iron 106mg	586%
Potassium 10961mg	233%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 44.2%

Protein: 17.3%

Carbs: 38.5%