Mac and Cheese Grilled Cheese (Print)

Classic grilled cheese gets a creamy macaroni and cheese boost in every rich, melty bite.

# Components:

→ Macaroni and Cheese Filling

01 - 1 cup elbow macaroni
02 - 2 cups whole milk
03 - 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
04 - ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
05 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
06 - 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
07 - ¼ teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
08 - Salt, to taste
09 - Black pepper, to taste

→ Sandwich Assembly

10 - 8 slices sourdough or white sandwich bread
11 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
12 - 4 slices cheddar or American cheese

# Directions:

01 - Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water according to package directions. Drain and reserve.
02 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Incorporate the flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute to create a smooth roux.
03 - Gradually whisk in the whole milk, stirring constantly until the sauce begins to thicken, approximately 2 minutes. Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and ground mustard, if desired.
04 - Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until thoroughly combined. Remove from heat.
05 - Lay out the bread slices. Evenly spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice.
06 - Place 4 bread slices, buttered-side down, on a clean surface. Top each slice with one slice of cheddar or American cheese. Spoon a generous portion of the macaroni and cheese mixture over the cheese slices, spreading it evenly.
07 - Top each assembled sandwich with a remaining bread slice, buttered-side up.
08 - Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Grill sandwiches for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
09 - Slice the grilled sandwiches and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick weeknight meal with pantry staples
  • Perfect for using up leftover mac and cheese
  • Customizable with your favorite cheeses and breads
  • Total comfort food that both adults and kids crave
02 -
  • High in protein from cheese and milk
  • A family favorite for leftovers and lunchboxes
  • Freezes well for make-ahead meals
03 -
  • Let your grilled cheese rest one minute before slicing to keep the filling inside
  • Do not skip buttering to the edge of the bread for that complete golden brown crunch on every bite
  • Be sure to assemble sandwiches while the macaroni is still warm so everything melds together perfectly
  • Choose sharper or aged cheddar for a deeper flavor

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