Baked Mac and Cheese

Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that I can never say no to. There’s something about that golden, bubbly cheese on top and the creamy, rich sauce underneath that instantly makes any day better. I love how it combines crispy and gooey textures in one satisfying bite, especially when fresh out of the oven.

This recipe takes a simple stovetop mac and cheese to a whole new level. The secret is baking it just long enough to get that perfect cheesy crust without drying out the pasta. Every time I make it, my kitchen fills with the smell of toasted cheese and butter it’s truly irresistible.

I often reach for this recipe when I need a dish that brings people together. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner, a potluck, or a weekend gathering, this baked mac and cheese always disappears fast. And the best part? It’s easy enough to whip up on a weeknight but impressive enough for guests.

Let’s get cooking creamy, cheesy perfection awaits!

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always swap cheeses or add your favorite mix-ins!

• Elbow macaroni – The classic shape that holds all the creamy sauce.
• Butter – Forms the base of the roux for a rich and smooth sauce.
• Flour – Helps thicken the cheese sauce.
• Milk – The liquid base that makes the sauce creamy.
• Cheddar cheese – Sharp and flavorful, the main star of the dish.
• Mozzarella cheese – Adds stretchiness and a gooey texture.
• Parmesan cheese – Gives a salty, nutty depth.
• Salt and black pepper – Essential for balancing flavors.
• Paprika (optional) – Adds a touch of color and mild spice.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot – To boil the macaroni to al dente perfection.
• Saucepan – For making the creamy cheese sauce.
• Whisk – To blend the roux and milk smoothly.
• Baking dish – Where all the cheesy magic happens in the oven.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the pasta and sauce together evenly.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

I start by boiling the macaroni in salted water until just al dente not too soft, since it will cook more in the oven. Then I drain and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a medium saucepan, I melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a smooth paste. I cook it for about a minute to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Add the Milk

I slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy.

Step 4: Stir in the Cheese

Once thickened, I remove the pan from the heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan until completely melted and smooth. I season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

I pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni, stirring gently until every piece is coated in that velvety goodness.

Step 6: Bake the Mac and Cheese

I transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, top it with a bit more cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

I let it rest for a few minutes before serving so the sauce thickens slightly then it’s time to dig in!

Tips

For extra flavor, I sometimes mix in crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions before baking. If you love a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with butter over the top layer of cheese. You can also experiment with different cheese combinations like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.

Ways to Serve

I love serving baked mac and cheese as a main dish with a side of green salad or roasted vegetables. It’s also the perfect side for barbecue chicken, steak, or even holiday turkey. For a fun twist, I serve leftovers in small ramekins and bake them again for an extra crispy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make baked mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

What’s the best cheese for mac and cheese?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but mixing in mozzarella or Gruyère gives it more depth and creaminess.

How do I keep it from drying out?
Don’t overbake, and make sure your cheese sauce is creamy before mixing with the pasta.

Can I freeze baked mac and cheese?
Yes, it freezes beautifully. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this baked mac and cheese a try! It’s cozy, cheesy, and full of comfort in every bite the kind of meal that instantly makes everyone smile. Share it with your loved ones or keep it all to yourself.

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