Baked Mac and Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Baked Mac and Cheese for its perfectly creamy texture and deep, savory flavor. The sauce is made from a blend of cheeses, milk, and a bit of mustard for tanginess, creating a velvety base that clings to every piece of pasta. The crispy, cheesy top adds a delightful contrast, making each bite a delicious mix of smooth and crunchy. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s comforting, satisfying, and guaranteed to please both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients

• 1 lb elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 3 cups whole milk

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping)

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

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.

2. Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux (a thick paste). Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add the cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.

4. Combine pasta and cheese sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

5. Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

6. Top with breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.

7. Bake the mac and cheese: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the mac and cheese for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

8. Serve: Let the baked mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: For a heartier dish, mix in cooked bacon, sausage, or grilled chicken.

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or jalapeños to the cheese sauce for some heat.

• Use different cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda, or fontina for different flavor profiles.

• Make it creamy: For a super creamy texture, substitute some of the milk with heavy cream or half-and-half.

• Add vegetables: Mix in sautéed onions, spinach, or roasted tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave in individual servings. If it seems too thick, add a little milk and stir to bring the creaminess back.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the mac and cheese up to 1 day ahead of time. Just cover it with foil and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to bake, remove the foil and bake as directed.

Can I freeze baked mac and cheese?

Yes, you can freeze baked mac and cheese. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until heated through.

Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How do I make mac and cheese more creamy?

For an extra creamy mac and cheese, you can use a blend of cheeses with a higher fat content (such as Gruyère or fontina) and add a bit more heavy cream or milk to the sauce. You can also mix in a little cream cheese for added richness.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the topping?

Absolutely! You can use any cheese that melts well for the topping, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or even a combination of cheeses like Parmesan and Gruyère.

Conclusion

Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that’s guaranteed to satisfy. With a creamy, cheesy sauce and a golden, crispy topping, it’s a dish that’s both indulgent and comforting. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Easy to prepare, customizable, and absolutely delicious, Baked Mac and Cheese is the perfect dish for any occasion.