mac and cheese recipe
The Best mac and cheese recipe
What I love most about this dish is how versatile it is. It’s perfect for a quick family meal, but it also works great for potlucks or gatherings because everyone loves it. You can keep it simple or dress it up with extra toppings like crispy breadcrumbs or a sprinkle of bacon. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies if you have picky eaters—just blend in some steamed cauliflower or butternut squash into the cheese sauce. It’s a win-win: delicious, easy, and just a little bit better for you than the classic version.
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
A rich and comforting classic mac and cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and can be customized with your favorite cheeses for extra flavor.
🥘Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream, warmed
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp paprika
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. -
2
Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. -
3
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. -
4
Gradually pour in the warmed milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens. -
5
Stir in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder. Remove the saucepan from heat and add the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth. -
6
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. -
7
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and paprika. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the mac and cheese. -
8
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Oven
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
1. Can I use any type of cheese for mac and cheese?
Yes, you can use a variety of cheeses to customize your mac and cheese. Popular choices include sharp cheddar, Gruyère, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan. For the best results, use a combination of cheeses for a richer flavor and creamier texture. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
2. How do I prevent my mac and cheese from being too dry?
To keep your mac and cheese creamy, avoid overcooking the pasta—drain it when it’s al dente. Also, make sure your cheese sauce is smooth and well-emulsified by adding the cheese gradually and stirring constantly. If the dish seems dry after baking, you can stir in a splash of warm milk or cream before serving.
3. Can I make mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare mac and cheese ahead of time by assembling it (without baking) and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it at the recommended temperature, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge. You can also freeze unbaked mac and cheese for up to 2 months—just thaw it in the fridge before baking.
4. What’s the best way to reheat leftover mac and cheese?
To reheat mac and cheese without drying it out, use the oven or stovetop. For the oven, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. On the stovetop, add a splash of milk or cream and stir over low heat until creamy. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the pasta rubbery.
5. Can I add mix-ins like meat or vegetables to mac and cheese?
Absolutely! Mac and cheese is a great base for mix-ins. Popular additions include cooked bacon, ham, grilled chicken, sautéed onions, bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach. For best results, cook any raw ingredients beforehand and fold them into the cheese sauce before baking.
