The Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Baked Mac And Cheese Recipe

If you’re craving something comforting, creamy, and deeply satisfying, this baked mac and cheese is the kind that makes everyone hover around the oven. It’s rich without being fussy, easy enough for a weeknight, and special enough for holidays. Truly a “keep this forever” recipe.

Ingredients

For the pasta & sauce:

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional but lovely)
  • 1/4 tsp paprika

For the topping:

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for crunch)
  • 1 tbsp melted butter (only if using breadcrumbs)

Optional swaps: Use Colby Jack instead of mozzarella, or replace half the cheddar with Gruyère for a slightly fancier flavor.

Steps

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
  2. Cook the macaroni until just shy of al dente. It will soften more in the oven, so don’t overcook it.
  3. Start the roux: melt butter in a large pot, whisk in the flour, and cook for 1 minute. It should smell warm and nutty.
  4. Slowly add milk and cream, whisking until smooth. Let it thicken gently don’t rush it.
  5. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and seasonings. The sauce should be creamy and lush; don’t worry if it seems extra thick, the pasta will drink it in.
  6. Combine pasta with the cheese sauce and pour into your baking dish.
  7. Add toppings: sprinkle cheddar on top. If using breadcrumbs, toss them with melted butter and scatter over the cheese.
  8. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden around the edges.

Chef’s Tips

  • Shred your own cheese if you can bagged cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
  • Don’t skip undercooking the pasta; it keeps your mac and cheese from turning mushy.
  • Let it rest 5–10 minutes before serving so the sauce sets into that perfect creamy scoop.

Variations

  • Three-Cheese Blend: Try cheddar, Gruyère, and fontina for a more gourmet take.
  • Spicy Mac: Add 1–2 diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce.
  • Bacon Mac: Stir in 1 cup cooked, crumbled bacon for smoky richness.

Serving Suggestion

Serve warm with a simple green salad or roasted veggies something fresh balances the creaminess beautifully.