Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This classic baked mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and topped with a crispy golden crust. It’s a comforting favorite that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

• 12 oz elbow macaroni
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Step 3: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns lightly golden.
4. Step 4: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Add salt, black pepper, and paprika.
5. Step 5: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 2 cups of cheddar, the mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
6. Step 6: Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, then pour into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and panko breadcrumbs evenly on top.
7. Step 7: Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra richness, try adding a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce.
• Use smoked cheddar for a deeper flavor twist.
• Mix in cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for added texture and taste.
• Swap panko breadcrumbs with crushed crackers for a different crunchy topping.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, but whole milk gives the creamiest texture. Using low-fat milk may result in a thinner sauce.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the mac and cheese in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 125 reviews

This classic Baked Mac and Cheese recipe features tender elbow macaroni smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce made with sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Topped with a crispy panko breadcrumb crust and baked to golden perfection, this comforting dish is perfect as a hearty side or a satisfying main course.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 12 oz elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Topping

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (reserved from above)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Make Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns lightly golden to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
4. Add Milk and Seasonings: Gradually whisk in the whole milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Stir in salt, black pepper, and paprika for flavor.
5. Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, all the mozzarella, and Parmesan until fully melted and smooth, creating a creamy cheese sauce.
6. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until evenly coated, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
7. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the macaroni, followed by the panko breadcrumbs to create a crunchy topping.
8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Allow to cool slightly before serving to let the sauce set.

Notes

• For extra creaminess, you can add a splash of heavy cream along with the milk.
• Use sharp cheddar for a more intense cheese flavor or mix different cheeses as preferred.
• If you like a crispier topping, broil for the last 2-3 minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning.
• Make sure to cook the pasta al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Keywords: baked mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, baked pasta, cheesy casserole