Description
This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe delivers the perfect mix of creamy sauce, golden crust, and rich flavor. Simple to make with three types of cheese and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, it’s the ultimate comfort food for family dinners or holidays.
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni (or shells, cavatappi, penne)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk (or 3 cups milk + 1 cup heavy cream)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Gruyère cheese (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dry mustard powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed Ritz crackers)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute to form a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheeses, mustard powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.
6. Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated.
7. Pour into prepared baking dish.
8. Combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
9. Bake 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
10. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a richer sauce, use part heavy cream.
Make ahead: Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Add-ins: bacon, jalapeños, or cooked broccoli for flavor twists.
For a crispier topping, broil 1–2 minutes after baking.
Pair with chili or roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 65mg