mac and cheese recipe
The Best mac and cheese recipe
What I love most about this version is how versatile it is. It works just as well for a quick weeknight dinner as it does for a potluck or holiday side dish. I’ve tweaked it over the years to make it a little healthier without sacrificing flavor—whole wheat pasta, a mix of sharp cheddar and Gruyère for depth, and a lightened-up béchamel that still feels indulgent. Plus, it’s packed with protein and calcium, so I don’t feel guilty letting my kids go back for seconds. It’s comfort food, but it doesn’t have to be a guilty pleasure.
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 or a side dish at gatherings, offering a creamy texture and cheesy flavor in every bite.
🥘Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 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
👨🍳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 4 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. -
4
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-5 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 mixing bowl, then transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. -
7
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. 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 pre-shredded cheese instead of block cheese for mac and cheese?
Yes, you can use pre-shredded cheese, but block cheese is generally recommended for better meltability and creamier texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. If using pre-shredded, add a splash of milk or cream to help it melt smoothly.
2. How do I prevent my mac and cheese from becoming dry?
To keep mac and cheese creamy, avoid overcooking the pasta—drain it when it’s al dente. Use enough cheese sauce to coat the pasta generously, and consider adding a splash of warm milk or cream before baking. Covering the dish with foil while baking also helps retain moisture.
3. Can I make mac and cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed (adding 5–10 extra minutes if cold). For best results, avoid freezing baked mac and cheese, as it can become grainy.
4. What’s the best cheese blend for mac and cheese?
A classic blend includes sharp cheddar for flavor, Gruyère for creaminess, and a bit of Parmesan for depth. Other great options are Monterey Jack, fontina, or pepper jack for a twist. Avoid overly mild cheeses, as they can make the dish bland.
5. How do I make my mac and cheese extra crispy on top?
For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and grated Parmesan, then sprinkle it over the mac and cheese before baking. Broiling for the last 2–3 minutes (watching closely) will also help achieve a golden, crunchy crust.
