Print

Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) Recipe

Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 11 reviews

This classic Baked Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and cheesy comfort food experience. Featuring a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses combined with a creamy roux-based sauce, topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe balances creamy textures with a crisp topping.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Topping

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (reserved from total)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Make roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns lightly golden and fragrant, creating the base for the sauce.
  4. Add milk and season: Slowly whisk in the whole milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Then, season with salt, black pepper, and paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.
  5. Incorporate cheeses: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 2 cups sharp cheddar, the mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth, creating a creamy cheese sauce.
  6. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, mixing well to ensure every piece is coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  7. Add topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese evenly over the mac and cheese, then top with panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.
  8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  9. Cool and serve: Let the baked mac and cheese cool slightly for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set and avoid burns.

Notes

  • For a crunchier topping, toss the panko breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter before sprinkling.
  • You can substitute mozzarella with gouda or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
  • Use whole milk for the creamiest texture; lower-fat milks may result in a thinner sauce.
  • Make sure not to overcook the macaroni to prevent it from becoming mushy after baking.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, cheesy pasta bake, comfort food, mac and cheese casserole

Find it online: https://zarameals.com/baked-mac-and-cheese-recipe-cheesy-and-creamy-recipe/