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: KimEasy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course, Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This homemade baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. It’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving a hearty, cheesy dish. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients and delivers rich, flavorful goodness in every bite.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • For the pasta:
    • 1 lb elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)
    • 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
  • For the cheese sauce:
    • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
    • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
    • 4 cups whole milk (warm)
    • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
    • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
    • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (optional for extra creaminess)
    • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
    • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
    • 1/2 tsp onion powder
    • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • For the topping:
    • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
    • 2 tbsp melted butter
    • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for color and flavor)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta:
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until just al dente (about 1 minute less than package directions). Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the cheese sauce:
    In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbly.
    Slowly whisk in the warm milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 4-5 minutes).
    Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese is melted and smooth.
  3. Combine pasta and sauce:
    Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
  4. Prepare the topping:
    In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and paprika.
  5. Assemble and bake:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top.
    Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
  6. Serve:
    Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Notes

  • For an extra cheesy mac, add more cheese to the sauce or layer some between the pasta before adding the topping.
  • Substitute Gruyère with more cheddar or Monterey Jack if preferred.
  • Add cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or roasted veggies for extra flavor.
  • To make ahead, assemble without baking, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.

Find it online: https://newsvks.com/the-best-homemade-baked-mac-and-cheese/