There’s nothing quite like a warm, bubbly pan of classic baked macaroni and cheese. This beloved comfort dish brings together tender pasta, a rich and creamy cheese sauce, and a perfectly golden top layer that adds just the right amount of crunch. Whether you’re serving it as a holiday side, weeknight dinner, or potluck favorite, this Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe delivers the nostalgic, homemade flavor everyone craves. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll create a dish that’s cozy, satisfying, and guaranteed to be requested again and again.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Yield: 1 (9x13-inch) casserole dish
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional, enhances cheese flavor)
Topping
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for breadcrumbs)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. - Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Tip: Slightly undercooked pasta prevents mushiness once baked. - Make the Roux
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste—do not brown. - Build the Sauce
Slowly whisk in the milk and cream until smooth. Continue cooking, whisking frequently, until thickened, 3–5 minutes. - Add the Cheese
Remove from heat. Stir in 2 cups Cheddar and 1 cup Gruyère (or mozzarella). Add salt, pepper, paprika, and mustard powder. Mix until fully melted and creamy. - Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until evenly coated. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish. - Prepare the Topping
Sprinkle the top with the remaining 1 cup Cheddar cheese.
For a crispy crust, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top. - Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. Cool for 10 minutes before serving to help it set.
Pro Tip: For an even richer flavor, use a combination of cheddar, smoked gouda, and Gruyère. Always shred cheese from a block for the smoothest melt—pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent creaminess.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated Values
- Calories: 540
- Total Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 23g
Conclusion
This Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe delivers everything you love about classic comfort food—creamy, cheesy, warm, and perfectly baked to golden perfection. Whether it’s the star of the meal or the ultimate side dish, this recipe is designed to impress and satisfy. With its cozy flavors and crowd-pleasing texture, it’s the kind of dish you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. Serve it for holidays, potlucks, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving something irresistibly delicious and homemade. Enjoy every melty, comforting bite!
