Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese
A delectable comfort food featuring creamy cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 lb elbow macaroni the classic pasta shape that envelops the rich cheese sauce
- 2.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded brings that iconic sharpness we crave
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded adds a nutty flavor that complements the cheddar
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded ensures a gooey, melty texture
Sauce Ingredients
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter enhances flavor and helps create a creamy texture
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour thickens the cheese sauce for a luscious finish
- 3 cups whole milk adds creaminess; use low-fat for a lighter version
- 1 cup heavy cream makes the sauce decadently rich
- 1 tsp salt enhances all the flavors in this comforting dish
- ½ tsp black pepper adds just a hint of warmth
- ½ tsp garlic powder infuses a savory depth that pairs perfectly with cheese
Topping
- 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs for a golden, crunchy topping
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted binds the breadcrumbs for extra crispiness
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese adds an extra layer of umami flavor, swap with nutritional yeast for a vegan option
- ½ tsp smoked paprika for a touch of smokiness that elevates the dish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt unsalted butter. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring continuously.
- Gradually whisk in whole milk and heavy cream, cooking until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, then remove the saucepan from heat.
- Mix in sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella cheese until the mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in the drained macaroni, ensuring every piece is coated in that luscious cheese sauce, then transfer it to your prepared baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and optional Parmesan and smoked paprika.
- Evenly distribute the breadcrumb topping over the cheesy macaroni.
Baking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbling; then broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for extra crunch.
Notes
Serve this delicious mac and cheese warm from the oven. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a special touch, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving. Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.