THE BEST HOMEMADE BAKED MAC AND CHEESE RECIPE
This creamy and cheesy baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. With a velvety cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, it’s the best homemade version of this classic dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs optional for topping
- 2 tablespoons melted butter optional for topping
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously until smooth and thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the Cheese:
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until fully melted and smooth.
Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
Prepare the Topping (Optional):
- If using, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
Bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
Make Ahead:
Prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Bake as directed before serving. Customizing the Flavor:
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a little kick. Swap in different cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan for more flavor depth. Serving Suggestions:
This mac and cheese pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, BBQ ribs, or a simple green salad. Serve it as a hearty side or main dish. Allergy-Friendly Options:
For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta. Storage Tips:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Bake as directed before serving. Customizing the Flavor:
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a little kick. Swap in different cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan for more flavor depth. Serving Suggestions:
This mac and cheese pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, BBQ ribs, or a simple green salad. Serve it as a hearty side or main dish. Allergy-Friendly Options:
For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta. Storage Tips:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.