Creamy Baked Mac

Introduction

This classic mac and cheese recipe is creamy, cheesy, and topped with a crunchy golden crust. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect as a hearty main course or a satisfying side. Easy to prepare and loved by all ages, homemade mac and cheese elevates a simple favorite.

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Whisk in flour until smooth and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Step 3: Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly. Continue to cook, stirring, until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Step 4: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
5. Step 5: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
6. Step 6: Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle panko bread crumbs evenly over the top.
7. Step 7: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, try mixing in a combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheese.
• Use whole milk or add a splash of cream for extra creaminess.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
• Add cooked bacon or caramelized onions for a savory twist.
• To make it extra crispy, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry to restore creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while elbow macaroni is traditional, other small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne work well and hold the cheese sauce nicely.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from separating?

Make sure to add the cheese off the heat and stir until melted. Overheating can cause the cheese to separate and become grainy.

Creamy Baked Mac

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 95 reviews

Classic creamy baked Mac and Cheese featuring al dente elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich, sharp cheddar cheese sauce, topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs for a delightful golden crust.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 8 oz elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

Topping

• 1 cup panko bread crumbs

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Roux: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until bubbly. Whisk in the all-purpose flour until the mixture is smooth, and cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
3. Add Milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it has completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir well until the pasta is thoroughly coated with the creamy sauce.
6. Bake: Transfer the cheesy macaroni into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the panko bread crumbs over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread crumbs are golden brown and crispy on top.

Notes

• For a richer flavor, mix sharp cheddar with a milder cheese like mozzarella or Gruyère.
• Use whole milk for creaminess, but you can substitute with 2% milk for a lighter version.
• Butter the baking dish well to prevent sticking and enhance browning on the edges.
• Panko breadcrumbs add a crunchy texture; substitute with crushed crackers if preferred.
• Allow the mac and cheese to cool slightly before serving for best taste and consistency.

Keywords: mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, elbow macaroni with cheese sauce, cheesy pasta, comfort food