why make this recipe
Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is a comforting and classic dish loved by many. This recipe allows you to create a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that is far more satisfying than store-bought versions. With the perfect blend of cheeses and a crispy topping, it’s ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or even just a cozy night in. Plus, making it yourself means you can control the ingredients and customize it to your taste!
how to make Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted, for topping)
Directions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it for 1–2 minutes less than the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is golden and smooth.
- Gradually whisk in the warm milk and cream, cooking until the sauce thickens (about 5–7 minutes).
- Season the sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and smoked paprika.
- Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyère cheese in batches until fully melted. Reserve some cheese for topping.
- Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, coating it thoroughly.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and top with the reserved cheese.
- Combine the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and a pinch of paprika, then sprinkle this over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the dish is golden and bubbly. If desired, broil for 2–3 minutes for a crispier topping.
- Allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if you like.
how to serve Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese
Serve the Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese hot, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken. For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving.
how to store Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 to 5 days. You can also freeze it for more extended storage. To freeze, make sure it’s completely cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
tips to make Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese
- Use a mix of cheeses for the best flavor. Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyère work wonderfully together.
- Stir the cheese sauce slowly to prevent it from clumping as you melt the cheese.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the sauce.
- Consider adding cooked bacon, ham, or vegetables like broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition.
variation
You can easily modify this recipe to suit your preferences. Consider adding different types of pasta like shells or penne, or try using different cheese combinations based on what you have on hand. Adding spices like Cajun seasoning can change the flavor profile significantly.
FAQs
1. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. The cooking time may vary, so adjust it according to the package instructions.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step. Cover it and store it in the refrigerator for a day. When you’re ready, simply bake it as directed.
3. How can I make it creamier?
To make your baked mac and cheese creamier, you can increase the amount of heavy cream or add a bit more cheese to the sauce.
Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it for 1–2 minutes less than the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is golden and smooth.
- Gradually whisk in the warm milk and cream, cooking until the sauce thickens (about 5–7 minutes).
- Season the sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and smoked paprika.
- Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyère cheese in batches until fully melted. Reserve some cheese for topping.
- Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, coating it thoroughly.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and top with the reserved cheese.
- Combine the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and a pinch of paprika, then sprinkle this over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the dish is golden and bubbly. If desired, broil for 2–3 minutes for a crispier topping.
- Allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.