Description
Classic homemade baked mac and cheese recipe delights families with creamy, cheesy goodness. Rich cheddar and smooth bechamel sauce create a comforting meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375F (190C) and thoroughly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, following package directions. Drain completely and set aside.
- Create a roux by melting butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
- Slowly stream milk into the roux, whisking vigorously to prevent lumps and create a smooth, thickening base.
- Incorporate cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses into the milk mixture, stirring until fully melted and achieving a velvety consistency.
- Season the cheese sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring each pasta piece is evenly coated.
- Transfer the cheesy macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it uniformly.
- Combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter in a separate bowl, then sprinkle the mixture evenly across the top for a crispy golden crust.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the surface turns golden brown and the edges become bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.
Notes
- Make the roux carefully by cooking flour and butter together, which helps prevent a grainy cheese sauce and creates a smooth, silky texture.
- Try different cheese combinations like sharp cheddar, gruyere, or gouda to add depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
- Use whole milk or even a mix of heavy cream and milk for an extra rich and creamy mac and cheese that feels indulgent and luxurious.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs to maintain the classic crispy topping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 623
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 33 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 56 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 92 mg