Homemade Baked Mac And Cheese Recipe

There’s nothing more satisfying than a warm, bubbling dish of Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese fresh out of the oven. With a creamy, velvety cheese sauce and a golden, crunchy topping, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or as a holiday side, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

this Recipes

I’ve been making this recipe for years, tweaking it until I found the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and crispy baked perfection. Now, it’s the dish everyone requests for special occasions – and I’m thrilled to share it with you!

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

This Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is a recipe you’ll return to time and time again.

First, it’s unbelievably creamy. The cheese sauce clings to every piece of pasta, creating a luscious bite every time.

Second, it’s made from scratch, giving you full control over the ingredients. No powdered mixes here – just real cheese and simple pantry staples.

It’s also perfectly baked. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds texture and contrast to the creamy pasta beneath.

Finally, it’s versatile. Serve it as a main dish with a side salad or pair it with your favorite protein for a comforting side.

Ingredients Notes

This mac and cheese recipe is all about the balance of flavors and textures, and the ingredients make it shine.

• Pasta: Classic elbow macaroni is the go-to, but shells, cavatappi, or penne work just as well.
• Cheese: A combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyère creates the perfect blend of tangy and creamy. You can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Parmesan for extra flavor.
• Butter and flour: These form the base of the roux, the key to a thick, silky cheese sauce.
• Milk and heavy cream: A blend of these ensures the sauce is rich but not too heavy.
• Seasonings: A touch of mustard powder, garlic powder, and paprika adds depth without overpowering the cheese.
• Breadcrumb topping: Panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter create a golden, crispy crust.

You’ll also need a large pot for boiling the pasta and a baking dish for assembling and baking the mac and cheese.

How to Make Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Making this Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is a straightforward process, and the results are well worth it!

1. Cook the pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook 1 pound of elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in ¼ cup of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form.
3. Add the cheese: Once the mixture thickens, stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded Gruyère. Season with 1 teaspoon of mustard powder, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix until the pasta is evenly coated. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
5. Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the pasta.
6. Bake to perfection: Bake the mac and cheese in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Storage Options

This mac and cheese is perfect for making ahead or saving leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil, until warmed through. Add a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients:

• Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, crispy bacon, or diced ham for a heartier meal.
• Vegetable mix-ins: Add sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or caramelized onions for a boost of flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy twist: Mix in diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce for a kick of heat.
• Different cheeses: Swap Gruyère for Fontina, Gouda, or even Pepper Jack for a unique flavor profile.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary needs.

This Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is everything comfort food should be – creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and watch it disappear from the table!

Print