Imagine cozying up on a chilly evening with a warm, creamy plate of mac and cheese fresh out of the oven. This dish isn’t just a recipe—it’s a nostalgic trip back to childhood, filled with the aromas of bubbling cheese and tender pasta. Whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck with friends, or just a quiet dinner at home, baked mac and cheese has a way of bringing people together.

This recipe elevates the classic mac and cheese with a rich, velvety cheese sauce and a golden breadcrumb topping that adds the perfect crunch. It’s indulgent, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make. Let’s dive into why this baked mac and cheese is destined to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Classic Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and topped with crispy breadcrumbs, this mac and cheese hits all the right notes.
Easy to Customize: You can mix in your favorite cheeses or even add veggies for a personal twist.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or as a holiday side dish.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepares well in advance, making it a stress-free choice for entertaining.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

16 ounces elbow macaroni
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

How to Make Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese:

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain the pasta, rinse it under cool water to stop the cooking, and set it aside.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, creating a smooth roux. Gradually add the milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to stir until the mixture thickens slightly.
Season and Melt the Cheese:
Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses a handful at a time until melted and smooth.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and gently mix until every piece is coated in cheesy goodness.
Assemble the Dish:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish.
Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
Bake to Perfection:
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Helpful Tips:

Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta will hold up better during baking.
Make It Your Own: Mix in cooked chicken, turkey ham, or steamed broccoli for added protein or veggies.

Recipe Details:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
Category: Main Course, Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Notes:

Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or oven. Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 450
Protein: 18g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 45g

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step. Cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold.

What Are the Best Cheeses to Use?
Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a smoky gouda for added depth.

Can I Freeze Baked Mac and Cheese?
Yes! Once fully baked, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Storage Instructions:

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Add a splash of milk and warm in the microwave or oven until creamy.

Related Recipes:

If you loved this baked mac and cheese, try these other comforting dishes:

Conclusion:

This homemade baked mac and cheese is more than just a dish—it’s an experience. From its creamy texture to its crispy topping, every bite feels like a hug in food form. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to earn a spot in your regular rotation. So grab your favorite cheese, preheat the oven, and get ready to create a dish everyone will adore.

The Ultimate Comfort Food: Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Author: Diane M

Print Recipe

Description

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain the pasta, rinse it under cool water to stop the cooking, and set it aside.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, creating a smooth roux. Gradually add the milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to stir until the mixture thickens slightly.
Season and Melt the Cheese:
Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses a handful at a time until melted and smooth.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and gently mix until every piece is coated in cheesy goodness.
Assemble the Dish:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish.
Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
Bake to Perfection:
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or oven. Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce.