Delicious baked mac and cheese topped with golden breadcrumbs

Baked Mac and Cheese

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Baked Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food that brings joy to many. It is creamy, cheesy, and has a crunchy topping that makes it irresistible. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in, this dish is easy to prepare and satisfying to eat. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is straightforward and guarantees good results.

how to make Baked Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

  • 250g / 8 oz macaroni (elbow pasta)
  • 1 tbsp (15g) unsalted butter (or 2 tsp oil)
  • 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs (Note 1)
  • 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 4 tbsp (60g) unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup flour (plain / all-purpose)
  • 3 cups milk (warmed, low or full fat)
  • 2 cups freshly shredded cheese, gruyere best (followed by cheddar and Colby) (Note 2)
  • 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese (or more other cheese of choice) (Note 2)
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp mustard powder

Directions:

Pasta:

  1. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Topping:

  1. In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and 1/4 tsp salt. Set aside.

Sauce (video is helpful):

  1. In a large pot, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  3. Gradually add the warmed milk, whisking until smooth.
  4. Cook until the sauce thickens, then stir in the cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and salt. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

Assembling:

  1. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce in a large baking dish.
  2. Top it with the breadcrumb mixture.
  3. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, until golden and bubbly.

how to serve Baked Mac and Cheese

Serve Baked Mac and Cheese hot, straight from the oven. You can garnish it with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheese if you like. It pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the rich flavors.

how to store Baked Mac and Cheese

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Baked Mac and Cheese will last for about 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

tips to make Baked Mac and Cheese

  1. For a creamier texture, use a mix of different cheeses.
  2. Keep an eye on the breadcrumbs to prevent burning. If they brown too quickly, cover the dish with foil.
  3. Experiment with seasonings. You can add paprika, cayenne pepper, or even a touch of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

variation

You can easily customize this dish by adding cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach, or even cooked meats like bacon or chicken for added flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, but elbow macaroni is traditional.

Can I freeze Baked Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just ensure it is well packaged. Thaw in the fridge before baking.

How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour mix to make the sauce. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.