Baked Mac and Cheese is a creamy and cheesy delight that warms the heart! It’s made with pasta mixed in a rich cheese sauce, then baked until golden and bubbly.
You can’t go wrong with comfort food like this! I often add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch—so good! 😋
Making this dish is a breeze. Just cook the pasta, whip up the cheese sauce, mix, and bake. It’s perfect for lunch or a cozy dinner at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This small pasta is classic for mac and cheese. You can substitute it with any small pasta, like shells or penne, if needed.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a strong flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, swap it for medium cheddar or a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack.
Gruyère Cheese: This cheese adds a nutty flavor to the dish. If Gruyère is hard to find, mozzarella or even gouda can be great options for that melty texture.
Milk and Cream: Whole milk makes a creamy sauce, but you can use 2% milk or a non-dairy milk if you have dietary needs. Just make sure it’s unsweetened!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add crunch on top. Regular breadcrumbs work too; simply toast them in a bit of butter for extra flavor.
How Do You Avoid Lumpy Cheese Sauce?
Creating a smooth cheese sauce is key to great mac and cheese. Here’s how to do it:
- Make a Roux: Cook flour and butter together until golden, which helps thicken the sauce.
- Add Milk Gradually: When you add milk and cream, pour it in little by little while whisking constantly. This prevents lumps.
- Heat Carefully: Cook the mixture over medium heat to allow it to thicken without burning.
- Stir in Cheese Off Heat: Remove the pot from the heat before adding cheese. This helps it melt smoothly and prevents clumping.
Use these tips, and you’ll have a dreamy, creamy cheese sauce for your baked mac and cheese! Enjoy!
Delicious Baked Mac And Cheese Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Mac and Cheese:
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni (about 3 cups)
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese (or mozzarella for a milder flavor)
- 4 cups milk (whole milk recommended)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For The Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious baked mac and cheese will take about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 30 minutes to bake, giving you a total of about 45 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that warms up, butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside. This will keep your mac and cheese from sticking!
2. Cook the Macaroni:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it until just al dente, which should take about 7 minutes. Drain the macaroni and set it aside while you get the sauce ready.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Keep whisking for about 2 minutes until it turns a golden color and is smooth.
4. Add Milk and Cream:
Now it’s time to make it creamy! Slowly pour in the milk and cream while whisking constantly. This prevents any lumps from forming. Cook the sauce, stirring continuously, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season the Sauce:
Take the sauce off the heat and stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (if you’re using them). This will add great flavor!
6. Stir in the Cheeses:
Add the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses into the sauce, stirring until they are completely melted and smooth. Yum!
7. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheesy sauce, making sure every piece is coated well. This will give you that delicious cheesy goodness in every bite.
8. Pour Into Baking Dish:
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
9. Add the Crunchy Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. This will help the breadcrumbs crisp up nicely. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
10. Bake to Perfection:
Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
11. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the mac and cheese from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Then dig in and enjoy your creamy, cheesy baked mac and cheese!
This recipe serves a hearty portion of comfort food, perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. Enjoy every bite! 🧀🍽️
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and Gruyère are classic choices, you can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even feta for a unique flavor. Just aim for cheeses that melt well!
Can I Make This Mac and Cheese Gluten-Free?
Yes, simply substitute the elbow macaroni with a gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the roux. Check the labels on your cheese and milk to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can assemble the mac and cheese, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes in cold from the fridge.
