Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden, crispy crust. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners, this classic dish combines tender pasta with a rich homemade cheese sauce and a buttery breadcrumb topping. It’s a satisfying and nostalgic favorite that never goes out of style.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

elbow macaroni
butter
all-purpose flour
milk (whole milk recommended)
heavy cream
sharp cheddar cheese
mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese
salt
black pepper
paprika
garlic powder
dry mustard (optional)
breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.

Gradually add milk and cream, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened.

Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and dry mustard.

Add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni and mix well.

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with a little melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over the top.

Bake for 25–30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8–10 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor.
Use Gruyère or Fontina cheese for a gourmet twist.
Mix in cooked broccoli or spinach for a veggie boost.
Top with crushed crackers or fried onions instead of breadcrumbs.
Include hot sauce or jalapeños for a spicy kick.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave individual portions with a splash of milk.
Freeze baked mac and cheese (without breadcrumbs) for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Baked Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to a day in advance. Add topping and bake when ready.

What’s the best cheese for mac and cheese?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but combining it with melty cheeses like mozzarella enhances texture.

How do I prevent it from drying out?
Don’t overbake, and add a bit of milk or cream before reheating.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, just cook it slightly less than al dente to avoid mushiness.

What type of milk should I use?
Whole milk gives the creamiest result, but 2% can work too.

Why use a roux?
The butter-flour mixture thickens the sauce and gives it a smooth consistency.

Can I skip the breadcrumb topping?
Yes, or swap it for a different topping like extra cheese or crushed chips.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely—it’s a favorite among children and adults alike.

Can I add protein?
Yes, try cooked chicken, ground beef, or sausage for a heartier meal.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking dish or two pans and adjust baking time slightly.

Conclusion

Baked Mac and Cheese is a timeless comfort food that’s always a crowd-pleaser. With its rich, creamy cheese sauce and golden topping, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re making it as a main course or a side, it’s sure to become a family favorite.