Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender pasta coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce and topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just to satisfy a craving, this dish delivers warmth and indulgence in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: A blend of cheeses creates a velvety smooth sauce.
• Golden and Crispy Topping: Buttery breadcrumbs add the perfect crunch.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients come together in just a few steps.
• Great for Any Occasion: Perfect as a side dish or a main course.

Ingredients

For the macaroni and cheese:

• 16 ounces elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• ½ teaspoon ground mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese

For the breadcrumb topping:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon paprika (for color and flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the macaroni and cook until just al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions).
3. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, whisking constantly, to form a roux.
3. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, making sure there are no lumps.
4. Add salt, pepper, paprika, and ground mustard. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
5. Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in the cheeses until melted and smooth.

Step 3: Combine and Assemble

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring all the pasta is well coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the macaroni.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

1. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
2. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Meaty Version: Stir in cooked bacon, ham, or shredded chicken.
• Extra Creamy: Use an additional ½ cup of heavy cream or mix in a little cream cheese.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How do I prevent my mac and cheese from being dry?

Use enough sauce to fully coat the pasta, and avoid overbaking. Adding a little extra milk when reheating helps keep it creamy.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What cheeses work best for mac and cheese?

A mix of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella creates great flavor and creaminess, but you can also try Monterey Jack, gouda, or Parmesan.

How do I get a super crispy topping?

Use panko breadcrumbs mixed with butter and bake until golden brown. You can also broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

It’s best to shred your own cheese because pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.

Is heavy cream necessary?

No, but it adds extra richness. You can use just milk, but the sauce won’t be as creamy.

What’s the best pasta for mac and cheese?

Elbow macaroni is classic, but cavatappi, penne, or shells also work well.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Peas, spinach, mushrooms, or roasted broccoli are great additions.

Why is my cheese sauce grainy?

This happens if the cheese is overheated. Always add cheese over low heat and stir until just melted.

Can I make this recipe without baking?

Yes, you can serve it straight from the stovetop. Baking just adds a crispy topping.

Conclusion

Baked mac and cheese is a classic, comforting dish that’s easy to customize. Whether you keep it simple or add a creative twist, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Make it for a cozy weeknight meal or a special occasion—it’s always a hit!

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