Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Baked macaroni and cheese is the epitome of classic comfort food. With tender pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce and topped with a golden, buttery breadcrumb crust, this dish is beloved by children and adults alike. Ideal for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or casual gatherings, it’s a timeless recipe that never fails to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, cheesy interior with a crispy baked topping

• Crowd-pleasing side or main dish

• Customizable with different cheeses and add-ins

• Make-ahead friendly for busy schedules

• Nostalgic and satisfying comfort food

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Elbow macaroni or pasta of choice

• Unsalted butter

• All-purpose flour

• Whole milk

• Heavy cream

• Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• Gruyère or mozzarella cheese, shredded

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Ground mustard (optional)

• Paprika (optional, for topping)

• Panko breadcrumbs

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar casserole pan.

2. Cook the pasta:
   Boil pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the roux:
   In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.

4. Add milk and cream:
   Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.

5. Add cheese and season:
   Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and ground mustard if using.

6. Combine with pasta:
   Mix the cheese sauce with the cooked pasta, then transfer to the prepared baking dish.

7. Top and bake:
   In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and paprika. Sprinkle over the pasta. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbling and golden brown on top.

8. Garnish and serve:
   Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6–8

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Three-cheese blend: Add Parmesan or Fontina for extra richness.

• Bacon or ham: Stir in cooked bacon bits or diced ham for added flavor.

• Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce.

• Vegetable mix-in: Try adding spinach, peas, or roasted broccoli.

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes, or microwave in individual portions.

FAQs

What cheeses are best for baked mac and cheese?

Sharp cheddar is traditional, but combining with Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack adds depth and creaminess.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting grainy?

Use freshly shredded cheese, avoid overheating, and add cheese off the heat to maintain a smooth texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Why is my mac and cheese dry?

It may be overbaked or lacking enough sauce. Use slightly undercooked pasta and plenty of cheese sauce for best results.

Can I make this without breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can skip the breadcrumb topping or replace it with extra cheese for a different texture.

Is there a stovetop version?

Yes, skip the baking step and serve after combining pasta with the cheese sauce.

How do I keep it creamy after baking?

Don’t overbake, and consider mixing in an extra splash of cream before baking.

What pasta shapes can I use?

Elbows, shells, cavatappi, or rigatoni all work well and hold the sauce nicely.

Can I use low-fat milk?

You can, but the result will be less creamy. Whole milk and cream produce the richest sauce.

What can I serve with mac and cheese?

It pairs well with roasted vegetables, green salad, BBQ, or fried chicken.

Conclusion

Baked macaroni and cheese is a classic recipe that delivers warmth, flavor, and nostalgia in every bite. With a creamy cheese sauce and golden, crunchy topping, it’s the perfect side dish or main course for nearly any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or bringing a dish to share, this version is sure to be a favorite.

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