Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with its creamy, cheesy sauce enveloping tender elbow macaroni, all topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or potlucks, this classic dish brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Its rich flavor and indulgent texture make it a go-to favorite for both kids and adults.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

elbow macaroniunsalted butterall-purpose flourwhole milkheavy creamcheddar cheesemozzarella cheeseparmesan cheesesaltpepperpaprikagarlic powderbreadcrumbs (preferably panko)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 4-5 minutes.

Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.

Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and mix well until fully coated.

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crispy topping.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesCooling time: 5 minutesTotal time: 50 minutes

Variations

Use Gruyère or Fontina cheese for a gourmet twist.

Add cooked bacon, ham, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.

Mix a bit of hot sauce or mustard into the cheese sauce for a tangy kick.

Top with crushed Ritz crackers or crushed cornflakes instead of breadcrumbs.

Try using gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free version.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.Microwave reheating is also possible, though the texture may be softer.Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to the bake time if baking from cold.

What cheeses melt best in mac and cheese?

Cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, and Monterey Jack melt well and create a creamy texture.

Why is my sauce grainy?

Overheating or using pre-shredded cheese can cause a grainy sauce. Use block cheese and melt it gently.

Can I skip the breadcrumb topping?

Yes, but the crust adds texture. You can substitute with extra cheese for a cheesier top.

How do I prevent dry mac and cheese?

Avoid overbaking, and make sure the sauce is creamy before baking. Extra cream can help.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, try adding peas, broccoli, or spinach for a more nutritious version.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, baked mac and cheese freezes well. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Conclusion

Baked Mac and Cheese is a beloved classic that never goes out of style. With its creamy interior and crisp topping, it’s a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite ingredients or enjoy it as-is for a cozy, cheesy experience everyone will love.