Baked Mac and Cheese
A timeless comfort food that combines perfectly cooked pasta with a luscious cheese sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 550kcal
Ingredients
Pasta and Seasoning
- 1 lb elbow macaroni or pasta shells These small pasta shapes hold onto the cheesy sauce perfectly.
- to taste Salt for boiling water To enhance the pasta's flavor.
Cheese Sauce Base
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter The base for a rich, comforting roux.
- 6 tbsp all-purpose flour To thicken our cheese sauce to creamy perfection.
- 3 cups whole milk Adding that lovely creaminess to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream For indulgent richness that elevates the flavor.
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard A hint of tanginess that balances the dish.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder For aromatic depth.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder To enhance the savory notes.
- to taste Salt & pepper Essential for seasoning.
Cheeses
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded The star of the cheese show!
- 1 1/2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded For a nutty, complex flavor.
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded Adding stretchiness and creaminess.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar (optional) For an extra cheesy topping you won’t want to miss!
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs For that delightful crunch on top.
- 3 tbsp melted butter To mix with the panko and help it crisp up.
Instructions
Preparation
- Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, cooking for 1–2 minutes until it forms a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Lower the heat and add in the cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella cheese.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
Baking
- Pour the cheesy mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter until combined. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Allow the dish to sit for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use high-quality cheese for better flavor. Customize the cheese selection based on personal preference for different flavors. For reheating, a splash of milk helps to maintain creaminess. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or chives can elevate flavors.