The ultimate comfort dish, perfected
Few dishes deliver comfort quite like baked mac and cheese. It’s rich, creamy, and unapologetically indulgent—the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. With a silky cheese sauce, tender pasta, and a golden, crunchy topping, this version strikes the perfect balance between nostalgic and elevated.
Whether you’re serving it as a main dish, a holiday side, or a weeknight treat, this creamy baked mac and cheese comes out bubbling, golden, and irresistibly delicious every single time.
Ingredients
Serves about 6
Pasta
- 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni (or another small pasta shape)
- 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
Cheese Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, but recommended)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (optional, for depth and creaminess)
Topping
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the macaroni and cook 1–2 minutes less than package instructions—the pasta will finish cooking in the oven.
- Drain well and set aside.
Tip: Slightly undercooked pasta ensures the final dish stays tender, not mushy.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a smooth roux.
- Slowly pour in the warm milk and cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Gruyère until fully melted and silky smooth.
Tip: Combining cheeses creates a richer flavor and a luxuriously creamy texture.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to a large bowl or directly into the baking dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and gently fold until evenly coated.
- Spread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and smoked paprika.
- Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the mac and cheese for a crisp, golden finish.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling around the edges.
- For an extra-crispy topping, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set slightly and makes serving easier.
Serve as a hearty main dish or as a side alongside:
- Fresh green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Fried or roasted chicken
Tips for Perfect Baked Mac and Cheese
- Cheese matters: Sharp cheddar brings bold flavor; Gruyère, Fontina, or Monterey Jack add meltability.
- Adjust consistency: If the sauce thickens too much, whisk in a splash of milk before baking.
- Make ahead: Assemble up to Step 4, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake with a few extra minutes added.
- Boost the flavor: Bacon, caramelized onions, or roasted vegetables make excellent add-ins.
Final Thought
Baked mac and cheese isn’t just pasta and cheese—it’s comfort, nostalgia, and indulgence all in one dish. With this method, you’ll achieve creamy, cheesy perfection with a golden crunch every time.
