🧀 Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Baked macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food featuring tender pasta in a creamy cheese sauce, topped with a golden, crispy crust. Perfect as a family dinner or side dish.
🥣 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
Pasta & Cheese Sauce:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (about 3 cups dry)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Gruyère (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ tsp paprika or mustard powder (optional, for flavor)
Topping:
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
- Cook pasta:
- Boil macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make cheese sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour to form a roux and cook 1–2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until thickened (~3–5 minutes).
- Add cheddar (and mozzarella if using), stirring until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional paprika or mustard powder.
- Combine pasta and sauce:
- Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated.
- Prepare topping:
- Combine breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan (if using).
- Assemble and bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour macaroni and cheese into a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly on top.
- Bake 20–25 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Let sit 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
🔥 Tips & Variations
- Extra creamy: Use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk.
- Add-ins: Cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or sautéed vegetables make it heartier.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños.
- Cheese blend: Cheddar, Gruyère, Fontina, or Monterey Jack for richer flavor.
This dish is creamy, cheesy, and comforting, a true classic that works for weeknights, potlucks, or special occasions.
I can also provide a quick stovetop version that skips baking but is still creamy and delicious.
