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The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

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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

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:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce:

  1. 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.
  2. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, ensuring no lumps. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Remove from heat and slowly add the shredded cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan, stirring until melted and smooth.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 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:

  1. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. 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:

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.

6. Serve:

  1. Let the mac and cheese cool for 5 minutes before serving.
  2. 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.

Find it online: https://recipe.ukfinda.com/the-best-homemade-baked-mac-and-cheese-recipe/