Description
Indulge in the ultimate baked mac and cheese with a creamy, cheesy sauce and a crispy, golden breadcrumb topping. Perfect for family dinners and gatherings, this comforting classic is easy to make and full of rich flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
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
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
- 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
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the macaroni and cook until just al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions).
- Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.
- Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps.
- Add salt, pepper, paprika, and ground mustard. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.
- Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Combine and Assemble:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix cooked macaroni into cheese sauce until well coated.
- Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Evenly sprinkle over macaroni.
- Bake and Serve:
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- 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 1/2 cup of heavy cream or mix in cream cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course,side dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: baked mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, homemade mac and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta