Description

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy dish fresh from the oven, especially when it combines tender slices of prime rib with creamy macaroni. Prime Rib Mac & Cheese Bake is the ultimate indulgence for cozy family dinners, festive gatherings, or any occasion that calls for comfort food with a gourmet twist. Inspired by the tradition of reinventing holiday leftovers, this recipe transforms leftover prime rib into a decadent, flavorful pasta bake that everyone will rave about. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender meat, it’s the perfect dish to impress family and friends while keeping mealtime comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups cooked prime rib, thinly sliced or chopped
3 cups elbow macaroni or small pasta shape
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk, warmed
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside. Toss lightly with olive oil if desired.
In a large saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Gradually whisk in warm milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Remove from heat and add cheddar, Gruyère, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
In a large bowl, gently fold cooked pasta and prime rib into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese, then top with remaining Parmesan.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and cheese is bubbling.
Let sit 5–10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with parsley for garnish if desired.

Notes

Taste and adjust seasonings before baking; cheese and cream can vary in saltiness.
Let the bake rest a few minutes after removing from the oven to allow the cheese sauce to thicken.
Use high-quality prime rib, cheese, and fresh milk/cream for best results.
For a crunchier topping, add crushed crackers or extra shredded cheese.
Make ahead: Assemble a few hours in advance, cover with foil, refrigerate, and bake before serving, adding 5–10 extra minutes if chilled.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes