Description
This classic baked mac and cheese is rich, creamy, and topped with a crispy golden crust. Perfect for holidays, weeknights, or anytime you need cozy, cheesy comfort.
Ingredients
1 lb elbow macaroni
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup gruyère or gouda, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan, grated
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook macaroni until al dente, drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter. Whisk in flour to make a roux and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add cheddar, gruyère, and parmesan. Stir until melted and smooth.
7. Fold in cooked pasta and mix to coat.
8. Transfer mixture to baking dish. In a bowl, toss panko with olive oil or melted butter.
9. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over mac and cheese.
10. Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use a blend of cheeses for best flavor.
Add cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or jalapeños for a twist.
To make ahead, assemble and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, cheesy pasta