Homemade Baked Mac And Cheese Recipe

There’s nothing like the rich, creamy indulgence of Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese fresh out of the oven. With a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping and a luscious cheese sauce, this dish is pure comfort food at its finest. Whether it’s a holiday meal or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is bound to be a crowd-pleaser.

I started making this recipe when store-bought mac and cheese just didn’t cut it anymore. Over the years, I’ve perfected it, and now it’s a staple for every gathering and celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Ultra Creamy and Cheesy

The combination of sharp cheddar, creamy Gruyère, and a hint of Parmesan creates a velvety sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.

Perfectly Baked

The golden breadcrumb topping adds a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce.

Family-Friendly

Kids and adults alike will rave about this dish. It’s familiar, comforting, and always a hit at the dinner table.

Make-Ahead Friendly

This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Assemble it ahead of time, pop it in the fridge, and bake when ready.

Ingredients Notes

To make the perfect Baked Mac and Cheese, you’ll need a handful of high-quality ingredients:

• Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but shells, cavatappi, or penne work just as well. Choose a pasta shape that holds onto the creamy sauce.
• Cheese Blend: A mix of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and a touch of Parmesan creates a flavorful and melty sauce. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Fontina.
• Milk and Cream: Whole milk and heavy cream form the base of the cheese sauce, ensuring it’s rich and luscious.
• Butter and Flour: These form the roux, a key step for a smooth, thickened cheese sauce.
• Breadcrumbs: A mix of panko breadcrumbs and melted butter creates the perfect crunchy topping. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor.
• Seasonings: A touch of mustard powder, paprika, garlic powder, and salt and pepper enhances the overall flavor.

How to Make Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

This dish may sound indulgent, but it’s surprisingly easy to make. Here’s how:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 1 pound of elbow macaroni until al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain the pasta and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is golden and smooth.

Gradually whisk in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.

Reduce the heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar, 1 cup of shredded Gruyère, and ½ cup of grated Parmesan. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Add 1 teaspoon of mustard powder, ½ teaspoon of paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well-coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the pasta. For extra flavor, add a handful of Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the mac and cheese uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Storage Options

Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is just as delicious the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled (but unbaked) dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent the topping from over-browning.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to customize it to your taste:

• Meaty Additions: Stir in cooked bacon, diced ham, or shredded chicken for a protein boost.
• Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a kick of heat.
• Vegetarian Mix-Ins: Incorporate sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or caramelized onions for added veggies.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs, and substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
• Lighter Version: Swap the heavy cream for milk and use reduced-fat cheese. The sauce will be less rich but still delicious.

There’s something truly special about a dish that’s both nostalgic and indulgent. This Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is all that and more, delivering a creamy, cheesy experience with every bite. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. So grab your favorite cheeses, preheat your oven, and let’s make mac and cheese magic!

Print