This baked mac and cheese is ultra creamy, cheesy, and topped with a crispy golden crust. Made with a rich homemade cheese sauce and baked to perfection, it’s the ultimate comfort food for family dinners, holidays, or potlucks. Save this easy baked mac and cheese recipe for a warm, crowd-pleasing dish everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy, cheesy, and comforting
- Perfect for family meals or gatherings
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Easy to customize with add-ins
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) elbow macaroni
- Salt (for boiling water)
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook pasta
Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Make roux
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. - Add milk & cream
Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Cook until thickened and smooth. - Add cheese & seasoning
Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted. Add garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. - Combine pasta & sauce
Mix cooked pasta with cheese sauce until fully coated. - Assemble
Pour into a greased baking dish. - Prepare topping
Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan, then sprinkle on top. - Bake
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly. - Serve
Let cool slightly and serve warm.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Baking dish
- Mixing spoon
Tips & Variations
Tips:
- Don’t overcook pasta—it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or chicken for extra protein
- Mix in broccoli or spinach for a veggie boost
- Use different cheeses like Gouda, gruyère, or Monterey Jack
- Add hot sauce or mustard for extra flavor depth
Storage & Reheating:
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of milk
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a main dish or side
- Pair with roasted vegetables or salad
- Great with BBQ dishes, grilled meats, or chicken
- Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fat: 25g
Note: Values are approximate.
Conclusion
Baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden crust. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is easy, delicious, and always a crowd favorite. Save, print, and share it for your next meal.
FAQ
1. Can I freeze baked mac and cheese?
Yes, let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
2. How do I make it ahead of time?
Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
3. Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely, try Gouda, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or gruyère.
4. How do I keep it creamy?
Don’t overbake and add a splash of milk when reheating.
5. Can I make it without breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can skip the topping or use crushed crackers instead.