This Classic Baked Mac and Cheese is the epitome of comfort food. The creamy, rich cheese sauce envelops the perfectly cooked macaroni, creating a dish that’s both nostalgic and indulgent. Topped with a golden, crispy layer of breadcrumbs and extra cheese, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in, this baked mac and cheese brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Customize it with your favorite cheeses or add-ins like bacon or jalapenos to make it uniquely yours. Enjoy the ultimate in cheesy comfort with this timeless dish.
Ingredients:
16 ounces elbow macaroni
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese, divided
1/2 tablespoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, until lightly golden.
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the mixture is thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 1/2 cups of shredded Gruyere cheese until melted and smooth.
Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
Pour the macaroni and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar and Gruyere cheeses.
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes