The Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

There’s just something magical about baked mac and cheese. It’s cozy, indulgent, and nostalgic—like a warm hug on a plate. But not just any mac and cheese will do! We’re talking about The Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese, where every bite is loaded with creamy, cheesy goodness, and the topping is irresistibly crispy and golden brown. Trust me, once you try this recipe, boxed mac and cheese will feel like a distant memory.

This isn’t just comfort food—it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re whipping it up for a family dinner, a holiday side dish, or just because you’re craving something rich and satisfying, this recipe checks all the boxes.

I first made this dish for a family gathering, and let me tell you—it was love at first bite. My cousins couldn’t stop raving about the crispy topping, and my grandmother (the queen of mac and cheese) even asked for the recipe. That’s when I knew this was a keeper. Let me guide you step-by-step through this foolproof recipe, complete with all the tips and tricks you need to make it perfect every time.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Here’s why this mac and cheese recipe deserves a spot in your go-to dinner rotation:

1. Creamy, Velvety Cheese Sauce

The combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyere creates a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s rich and cheesy without being too heavy.

2. Crispy, Buttery Topping

The panko-Parmesan topping bakes up golden and crunchy, adding a satisfying contrast to the creamy pasta below. A sprinkle of smoked paprika adds a hint of smoky depth that takes it over the top.

3. Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing

Kids love it, adults love it—this recipe is a guaranteed hit for all ages. It’s also perfect for gatherings since it serves a crowd.

4. Customizable

Want to add a spicy kick? Toss in some cayenne pepper. Need a gluten-free option? Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. This recipe adapts beautifully to your preferences.

5. Easy to Make

Despite its rich, complex flavor, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow. Even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll find it simple and rewarding to prepare.

Preparation Time and Servings

Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8 hearty portions
Nutrition Facts: (per serving)

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 25g

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for this creamy, dreamy baked mac and cheese:

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 16 oz elbow macaroni (or other tubular pasta): This is the foundation of your dish. Elbows are classic, but cavatappi, penne, or rigatoni work well too.
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Keeps the pasta from sticking together as it cools.
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness to the roux and overall sauce.
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the cheese sauce to perfection.
• 3 cups whole milk: Ensures a creamy texture without being overly heavy.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: For an extra luxurious, velvety sauce.
• 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded): Provides bold, classic cheese flavor.
• 2 cups Gruyere cheese (shredded): Melts beautifully and adds a nutty undertone.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the overall flavor balance.

For the Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups panko crumbs: For that signature crispy, golden finish.
• 4 tbsp butter (melted): Helps the crumbs toast evenly and adds richness.
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (shredded): Intensifies the savory notes in the topping.
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika): Adds a subtle smoky flavor and beautiful color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s dive into how to create this masterpiece of baked mac and cheese.

1: Prep the Oven and Dish

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Lightly grease a 3-quart or 4-quart baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter. Set it aside.

2: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the pasta and cook it for 1 minute less than al dente according to the package instructions. (The pasta will finish cooking in the oven.)
• Drain the pasta and transfer it to a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. This prevents the pasta from sticking while it cools.

3: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a deep saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. The mixture should be golden and bubbly—this is your roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form.
4. Continue cooking and whisking until you see bubbles on the surface, then cook for an additional 2 minutes to thicken. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in 2 cups of shredded cheddar. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
6. Add another 2 cups of cheddar and all of the Gruyere, stirring until creamy and thick.

4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, folding gently to coat every piece in creamy goodness.

5: Layer the Mac and Cheese

• Pour half of the mac and cheese into your prepared baking dish.
• Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar.
• Add the remaining mac and cheese on top, spreading it evenly.

6: Add the Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine panko crumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and smoked paprika. Mix until evenly coated.
2. Sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.

7: Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
• For an extra crispy topping, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end (watch closely to avoid burning).

8: Serve and Enjoy

• Let the mac and cheese rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly.

How to Serve This Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

This baked mac and cheese is incredibly versatile. Here are a few serving ideas:

• As a main dish: Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• As a side dish: Serve alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or beef.
• Kid-friendly option: Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or buttered corn.

Additional Tips

1. Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can affect how it melts. For the creamiest sauce, shred your cheese from a block.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercooking the pasta ensures it doesn’t become mushy after baking.
3. Toast the Breadcrumbs: If you want an ultra-crispy topping, lightly toast the panko crumbs in a dry skillet before mixing them with butter.
4. Season Generously: Cheese can be salty, but don’t forget to taste and adjust your sauce for seasoning. A pinch of garlic powder or mustard powder can also enhance the flavor.
5. Make Ahead: Prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

Recipe Variations

This mac and cheese recipe is incredibly adaptable. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Spicy Version: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
• Extra Cheesy: Add more Parmesan or experiment with other cheeses like fontina or Monterey Jack.
• Vegetarian Add-Ins: Stir in roasted vegetables like broccoli, butternut squash, or spinach.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers:

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

Freezing:

• Freeze in individual portions or as a whole dish. Wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months.
• Reheat from frozen at 350°F, covered, until heated through.

FAQ

Q: Can I use low-fat milk?
A: Yes, but the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy.

Q: Can I skip the heavy cream?
A: You can substitute with whole milk, but the texture may be slightly less luxurious.

Q: What’s the best cheese for mac and cheese?
A: Sharp cheddar is a classic, but a blend of cheeses (like Gruyere, Parmesan, or even mozzarella) creates the best flavor.

Conclusion

There you have it—the best homemade baked mac and cheese recipe that’s guaranteed to steal the show at your dinner table. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with buttery, crispy breadcrumbs, it’s the ultimate comfort food.

I’d love to see how your baked mac and cheese turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and tag me on Instagram with your delicious creations. Happy cooking! 😊

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