Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Craving the ultimate comfort food? This baked mac and cheese recipe delivers a golden, crunchy topping over a rich and creamy cheese sauce. Made from scratch with simple ingredients, it’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, or potlucks. Every forkful is loaded with flavor, velvety cheese, and perfectly baked pasta.

Ingredients List

– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– ¼ cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
– 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes.
Step 4: Slowly pour in milk and cream, whisking constantly until thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
Step 5: Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
Step 6: Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Add cooked pasta and mix well.
Step 7: Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
Step 8: In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
Step 9: Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings

Serves 6

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

Calories: 480
Carbs: 34g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 30g

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
For freezing, assemble the dish without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Pairings/Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
Great side dish for baked chicken, meatloaf, or BBQ ribs.
Add chopped bacon or caramelized onions for extra depth.

Seasonal Relevance

Ideal for fall and winter comfort meals, holiday gatherings, or weekend family dinners.

Conclusion

This baked mac and cheese is the kind of dish that makes everyone go back for seconds. With its creamy base and golden top, it’s both nostalgic and indulgent—homemade comfort at its best.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare everything up to the baking step, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.

Q2: Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely—try Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Fontina for different flavors.

Q3: How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and substitute gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.