Introduction

Baked Mac and Cheese is a comforting classic that combines creamy, cheesy pasta with a crispy, golden breadcrumb topping. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or as a crowd-pleasing side dish.

A rectangular white baking dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese showing two main layers: the bottom layer is white macaroni pasta mixed with light yellow cheese sauce, and the top layer is a golden-brown melted cheese crust mixed with breadcrumbs, giving it a textured, crunchy look. A silver spoon is digging into the macaroni at the corner of the dish, revealing the soft, creamy pasta beneath. In the background, there is a small white bowl also filled with the same macaroni and cheese. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with a gray-striped cloth partly underneath the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 ounces elbow macaroni
5 tablespoons salted butter
5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
2¾ cups milk
½ cup half and half (or light cream)
14 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese (approximately 3½ cups lightly packed)
1½ ounces shredded Parmesan cheese (approximately ½ cup)
½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
½ teaspoon seasoned salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
¼ cup Panko bread crumbs
2 teaspoons butter (melted)
2 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese (approximately ½ cup lightly packed)
2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well, run under cold water, and set aside.
Step 3: In a small bowl, combine Panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, 2 ounces shredded cheddar, and 2 tablespoons Parmesan. Mix well and set aside to create the topping.
Step 4: In a medium saucepan, melt 5 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, onion powder, and garlic powder. Cook for 2 minutes while stirring constantly.
Step 5: Gradually whisk in the milk and half and half, stirring until smooth after each addition. Continue cooking over medium heat until the mixture simmers, then let it simmer for 1 minute.
Step 6: Remove the sauce from heat. Add cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, dry mustard powder, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the cheeses melt and the sauce is smooth.
Step 7: Toss the cheese sauce with the drained macaroni, then gently spoon the mixture into a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Step 8: Evenly sprinkle the prepared Panko topping over the macaroni. Bake for 20 to 22 minutes or until bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Avoid overcooking.

Tips & Variations

For a richer cheese sauce, use full-fat cream instead of half and half.
Try adding cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor.
Use a mix of cheeses such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different taste profile.
To make it gluten-free, swap all-purpose flour and Panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives.

Storage

Store leftover baked mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave in short increments, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.

How to Serve

A white rectangular baking dish with black handles is filled with creamy macaroni and cheese. The dish shows three visible layers: the bottom layer is soft, light yellow cooked pasta coated in a smooth cheese sauce, the middle layer is covered with shredded cheddar cheese with bright orange and light yellow colors, and the top layer is sprinkled with finely crushed breadcrumbs pale beige in color, giving a crunchy texture. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface next to two clear glass salt and pepper shakers and a striped light gray cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different pasta shapes for baked mac and cheese?

Yes, any sturdy pasta like shells, rotini, or penne works well. Just adjust cooking times to ensure the pasta is al dente before baking.

How do I prevent the mac and cheese from becoming dry?

Make sure to use enough cheese sauce to coat the pasta well and avoid overbaking. Covering the dish with foil for part of the bake can help retain moisture.