baked macaroni and cheese recipe

Did you know that macaroni and cheese is one of the most searched comfort food recipes online, with over 2 million monthly searches? Yet, many people struggle to achieve that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with a golden, crispy topping. If you’ve ever wondered how to make the ultimate baked macaroni and cheese recipe, you’re in the right place. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also delivers a dish that’s rich, indulgent, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just craving some comfort food, this baked mac and cheese will become your go-to recipe.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this decadent baked macaroni and cheese recipe. The ingredients are simple, but the result is extraordinary:

For the Mac and Cheese:

16 oz (450g) elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
4 tbsp unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese for a milder flavor)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for that perfect stretch)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky twist)
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
2 tbsp melted butter
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried parsley (optional, for color)

Pro Tip: For a gourmet touch, add a splash of truffle oil or mix in cooked bacon bits before baking.

Timing

Let’s break down the time commitment for this baked macaroni and cheese recipe:

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Compared to boxed mac and cheese, which might save you 10 minutes, this homemade version is 100% worth the extra effort for its rich flavor and creamy texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (about 8-9 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Tip: Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will continue to bake in the oven.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden.
Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Cook the sauce for 5-7 minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
Season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Tip: For an extra creamy sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese.

*Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
Sprinkle the topping evenly over the mac and cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the mac and cheese for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tip: For an extra crispy topping, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 8 servings):

Calories: 520
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient substitutions.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Want to make this baked macaroni and cheese recipe a bit lighter? Try these swaps:

Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber.
Substitute half the cheese with nutritional yeast for a lower-fat option.
Replace butter with olive oil and use low-fat milk to reduce calories.
Add pureed cauliflower or butternut squash to the cheese sauce for extra nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

This baked macaroni and cheese recipe is a star on its own, but here are some creative ways to serve it:

Main Dish: Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal.
Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or BBQ ribs.
Holiday Favorite: Make it the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving or Christmas table.
Comfort Bowl: Top with crispy bacon, breadcrumbs, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flair.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: It often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Always shred your own cheese.
Skipping the Roux: The roux is essential for a smooth, creamy sauce. Don’t rush this step.
Overbaking: This can dry out the dish. Bake just until bubbly and golden.
Not Seasoning Enough: Taste the sauce before baking and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked mac and cheese for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions.

Conclusion

This baked macaroni and cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and a crispy topping. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Try it today and share your feedback in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes and cooking tips.