Baked Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food

by

There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy bowl of mac and cheese to make you feel cozy and satisfied. This Baked Mac and Cheese recipe takes the classic comfort food to the next level by baking it in the oven for a golden, crispy top and extra creamy interior. With a rich, velvety cheese sauce and a perfectly baked, crunchy topping, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients for Baked Mac and Cheese

For 6 servings, you will need:

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cups whole milk (or 2% for a lighter version)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted (for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce
    • In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture becomes slightly golden (this creates your roux).
    • Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
  3. Add the Cheese
    • Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted completely, creating a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce
    • Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to combine, making sure all the pasta is well-coated in the cheesy goodness.
  5. Bake the Mac and Cheese
    • Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
  6. Bake and Serve
    • Bake the mac and cheese in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. For an extra crispy topping, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end (watch carefully to avoid burning).
    • Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your perfectly baked mac and cheese!

Tips for the Best Baked Mac and Cheese:

  • Use a variety of cheeses: Experiment with different cheese combinations for a unique flavor. Gruyère, gouda, or fontina are great additions to the classic cheddar.
  • Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a bit of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Add-ins: You can add cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

Leave a Comment