Description
This indulgent and creamy baked mac & cheese features a rich homemade cheese sauce, tender pasta, and a crispy, golden topping. Perfect for cozy dinners, it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any small pasta)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the macaroni according to package directions until just undercooked (it will continue cooking in the oven). Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually pour in milk and cream, whisking until smooth and thickened. Add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
- Prepare the Topping: Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan (if using).
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumb mixture. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, until golden and crispy. Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes for extra bubbling.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Notes
- Cheese Tip: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
- Pasta Tip: For a sturdy bake, use small, thick pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or cavatappi.
- Make it Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6th of the recipe
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 60mg