Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner, Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This baked mac and cheese is ultra creamy, super cheesy, and topped with a crispy, buttery breadcrumb crust. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or anytime you crave classic comfort food!


Ingredients

Units Scale
For the Mac and Cheese:
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Topping:
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  • Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
  • Season the sauce: Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and Dijon mustard. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
  • Add the cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  • Combine pasta and sauce: Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until well coated. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
  • Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
  • Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
  • Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

  • For extra creaminess, add an additional ½ cup of cheese to the sauce.
  • Try mixing different cheeses like Gouda, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for more flavor.
  • For a smoky kick, add cooked bacon bits or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.