Go Back

Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Creamy macaroni coated in rich cheese sauce and baked with a golden breadcrumb topping. The ultimate comfort food classic.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni or cavatappi
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk warmed
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese shredded
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • salt and black pepper to taste
Topping
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp butter melted
  • 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Melt butter in saucepan, whisk in flour to make roux.
  3. Gradually add warmed milk, whisking until smooth and thickened.
  4. Stir in cheeses, Dijon, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  5. Combine cooked pasta with cheese sauce.
  6. Mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan, and parsley for topping.
  7. Transfer mac and cheese to baking dish, top with breadcrumb mixture.
  8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Notes

Can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking. Add 10 extra minutes if baking from cold.