Baked Mac and Cheese
Creamy, cheesy pasta baked to golden perfection with a crunchy breadcrumb topping. This ultimate comfort food is a family favorite, perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.
For 8 servings
11 steps. 40 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- a.Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
- 2
Once boiling, generously salt the water with 1 tbsp of salt
- a.Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically about 7-8 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- 3
While the pasta cooks, prepare the cheese sauce
- a.In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat.
- 4
Whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a paste (a roux)
- a.Cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, until it smells nutty and is lightly golden. Do not let it burn.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Gradually pour in the warm milk, about one cup at a time, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until it has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- 6
Remove the pot from the heat
- a.This is crucial to prevent the cheese from separating. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- 7
Step 7
- a.Season the sauce with 1 tsp salt, black pepper, dry mustard, paprika, and nutmeg. Stir to combine, then gently fold in the cooked macaroni until it is well-coated.
- 8
Step 8
- a.Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer.
- 9
Step 9
- a.In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and 3 tbsp of melted butter. Toss until the breadcrumbs are evenly moistened. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
- 10
Step 10
- a.Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- 11
Step 11
- a.Remove from the oven and let the baked mac and cheese rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and thicken further.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Shred your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy and prevent smooth melting.
- 2Slightly undercook the pasta. It will continue to cook in the oven, so cooking it al dente prevents it from becoming mushy.
- 3Use warm milk. Adding cold milk to the hot roux can cause lumps. Warming it slightly helps create a smoother sauce.
- 4Remove the sauce from the heat before adding cheese. This is the most important step to prevent the cheese from becoming stringy or separating.
- 5Let it rest. Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking helps the sauce thicken and set, making it easier to serve.
- 6For a creamier sauce, substitute 1/2 cup of the whole milk with heavy cream or stir in 4 oz of cubed cream cheese with the other cheeses.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Protein
Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon, shredded rotisserie chicken, or pulled pork with the pasta for a heartier main course.
Add VegetablesAdd Vegetables
Mix in steamed broccoli florets, sweet peas, or caramelized onions for added flavor and nutrients.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the sauce or mix in diced jalapeños with the pasta for some heat.
Gourmet CheesesGourmet Cheeses
Experiment with other good melting cheeses like fontina, smoked gouda, or Monterey Jack in place of or in addition to the cheddar and Gruyère.
Crunchy ToppingCrunchy Topping
For a different texture, substitute the panko breadcrumbs with crushed Ritz crackers or potato chips.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Calcium
The significant amount of milk and cheese in this recipe makes it a great source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
Good Source of Protein
Dairy products like cheese and milk provide high-quality protein, necessary for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Provides Energy
The carbohydrates from the pasta serve as a primary source of energy, helping to fuel your body and brain throughout the day.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of this recipe contains approximately 650-750 calories, depending on the specific brands of cheese and milk used. It is a rich and indulgent dish best enjoyed as a comfort meal.