Description
This Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is rich, creamy, and loaded with cheesy goodness! Made with a velvety cheese sauce and topped with a buttery breadcrumb crust, it’s perfect as a comforting main dish or a crowd-pleasing side.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
(Serves 6-8)
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb (450 g) elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or mozzarella for a milder flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, ensuring no lumps. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Remove from heat and slowly add the shredded cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan, stirring until melted and smooth.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl or the pot used to cook the pasta, combine the cooked pasta and cheese sauce. Mix until the pasta is fully coated.
4. Assemble the Dish:
- Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and paprika (if using). Sprinkle evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
5. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve:
- Let the mac and cheese cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheese, if desired.
Notes
- Cheese Variations: Mix and match your favorite cheeses like Monterey Jack, fontina, or Colby for a custom flavor.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.