Description
This Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese is the perfect comfort food — creamy, rich, and loaded with a blend of cheeses baked under a golden, buttery breadcrumb topping. It’s the ultimate cheesy bake that’s irresistible for family dinners, potlucks, or holidays.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
- 4 tbsp (60g) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 3 cups (720ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 3 cups (340g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (110g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup (80g) panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook pasta in salted water until just al dente (1–2 minutes less than package directions). Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Continue cooking for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in salt, pepper, mustard powder, and paprika.
- Remove from heat and add 2 1/2 cups cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix until evenly coated.
- Pour the mac and cheese into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese.
- In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, use a mix of cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Colby.
- To make it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce.
- Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated; bake an extra 10 minutes if chilled.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave with a splash of milk.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American