Golden, Crispy, and Creamy — The Ultimate Comfort Food
When it comes to classic comfort food, nothing compares to a bubbling dish of baked mac and cheese straight from the oven. Creamy on the inside, crispy on top, and packed with layers of rich, cheesy goodness — this recipe takes everything you love about mac and cheese and turns it into a restaurant-quality masterpiece you can easily make at home.
Perfect for Sunday dinners, holidays, or cozy nights in, this version of mac and cheese is truly the best you’ll ever bake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy inside: A silky cheese sauce made from scratch.
- Perfectly golden crust: The panko topping adds the ultimate crunch.
- Customizable: Add bacon, lobster, or broccoli for your own twist.
- Crowd-pleaser: A family favorite that’s just as good the next day.
- Simple ingredients: Nothing fancy — just pantry staples and real cheese.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6–8
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook macaroni until just al dente (about 1 minute less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt ¼ cup butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw taste.
Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until the sauce begins to thicken.
Add salt, pepper, and 3 cups of cheddar plus the mozzarella. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
Step 4: Bake It
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar on top.
Step 5: Add the Topping
In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top for a perfect golden crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Baked Mac and Cheese
- Use freshly shredded cheese: It melts smoother and creamier.
- Don’t skip the roux: It’s the secret to a thick, creamy sauce that holds together.
- Mix cheeses for depth: Try adding Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for a gourmet touch.
- Avoid overbaking: Once golden, remove immediately to keep the sauce creamy.
Recipe Variations
- Lobster Mac and Cheese: Stir in cooked lobster chunks before baking for a luxurious twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or hot sauce.
- Three-Cheese Blend: Combine cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan for complex flavor.
- Broccoli Bake: Add steamed broccoli florets for a veggie-packed comfort dish.
👩🍳 Serving Suggestions
This baked mac and cheese pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted chicken or grilled steak
- Fresh garden salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Notes
- For extra crunch, mix your breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan.
- Make ahead by preparing the mac and cheese, refrigerating, and baking just before serving.
- Double the recipe for family gatherings or potlucks!
Summary
This Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is the perfect mix of creamy, cheesy comfort and crispy topping perfection. One bite and you’ll understand why it’s called the best. Serve it as a side dish or the main event — either way, it’s guaranteed to make everyone smile.