baked mac and cheese recipe
The Best baked mac and cheese recipe
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can keep it simple with just cheddar and elbow pasta, or dress it up with extra veggies like spinach or broccoli for a little nutrition boost. The whole wheat pasta and reduced-fat cheese options make it a little lighter without sacrificing flavor, which is great for everyday meals. Plus, it reheats well, so leftovers are just as good the next day. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table happy, and that’s really all I ask for in a recipe.
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
A rich and comforting baked mac and cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping. This classic dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering a creamy, cheesy interior with a golden, crunchy finish.
🥘Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 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 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 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 until al dente, about 8 minutes. 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 milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens. -
5
Stir in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder. Remove from heat and add the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth. -
6
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce in a large bowl, mixing until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. -
7
In a small bowl, mix 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 make baked mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed (you may need to add 5–10 extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge).
2. How do I prevent my mac and cheese from drying out?
To keep your mac and cheese creamy, avoid overbaking it. Pull it out of the oven when the top is golden and the edges are bubbly but the center is still slightly jiggly. Letting it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving also helps the sauce thicken. Adding a splash of milk or cream to the cheese sauce before baking can help too.
3. Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! A mix of cheeses creates the best flavor and texture. Classic choices include sharp cheddar, Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella for creaminess. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Freshly grated cheese melts much smoother.
4. What’s the best way to reheat leftover baked mac and cheese?
For the best results, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through (about 15–20 minutes). Cover with foil to prevent drying out. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but add a splash of milk and stir occasionally to keep it creamy.
5. Can I make baked mac and cheese without breadcrumbs on top?
Yes, you can skip the breadcrumbs if you prefer a smoother top. For extra richness, you can top the mac and cheese with extra shredded cheese or crushed crackers instead. If you want a crispy topping but don’t have breadcrumbs, try panko, crushed potato chips, or even fried onions for texture.
