The Ultimate Guide to Homemade Baked Macaroni and Cheese: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe
Homemade baked macaroni and cheese is the epitome of comfort food, truly reminiscent of the cherished dishes grandma used to prepare. This classic baked mac and cheese recipe is not only easy to follow but also yields a supremely delicious, creamy cheese sauce perfectly coating tender elbow macaroni, all crowned with a delightful crunch of seasoned breadcrumbs. If you’re searching for that authentic, old-fashioned baked macaroni and cheese experience that defines a true American classic, you’ve found it!
While we absolutely adore our convenient Crockpot macaroni and cheese – and know many of you do too – there’s something undeniably special about a beautifully baked casserole. So, we’re thrilled to share this tried-and-true oven-baked version that promises a golden, bubbly, and utterly satisfying meal.
Embrace the Classic: Our Best Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Everyone holds a special place in their heart for “momma’s” or grandma’s homemade, old-fashioned baked macaroni and cheese. It’s more than just a dish; it’s a warm hug, a nostalgic trip back to simpler times. This recipe captures that essence perfectly: creamy, rich, cheesy elbow macaroni noodles, encased in a luscious sauce, topped with crunchy, golden breadcrumbs. It’s comfort food at its absolute finest, a beloved family favorite that brings smiles to every table.
Speaking of favorites, our Panera Mac and Cheese is another crowd-pleaser that we highly recommend trying!
We couldn’t agree more with the sentiment that baked mac and cheese is truly special, which is why we’re delighted to share our family’s cherished recipe. This rendition is incredibly straightforward to prepare, yet the results are consistently exceptional. While we firmly believe the crunchy breadcrumb topping is essential for that authentic old-fashioned character, feel free to omit it if you prefer. However, trust us – those crispy, buttery morsels truly elevate the dish!
Key Ingredients for an Unforgettable Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Creating truly exceptional homemade baked mac and cheese starts with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is crucial for achieving that perfect creamy, cheesy goodness:
- Elbow Macaroni: This classic pasta shape is traditional for a reason! Its small, curved form perfectly cradles the rich cheese sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. While we’re partial to Barilla brand for its consistent quality, any good quality elbow macaroni will work. You can also experiment with other small pasta shapes like cavatappi or medium shells, which also do a great job of holding the sauce.
- Butter: Essential for our homemade roux, which forms the base of the luxurious cheese sauce. Both salted or unsalted butter are fine; just adjust the additional salt to taste. Margarine can be substituted if absolutely necessary, but butter offers a richer, more authentic flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: This is the second crucial component of our roux. It thickens the sauce beautifully, preventing it from being watery. Regular unbleached or bleached all-purpose flour works perfectly for creating a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Milk: For the creamiest texture, we highly recommend using whole milk. Its higher fat content contributes significantly to the richness and velvety mouthfeel of the cheese sauce. However, if you prefer or only have skim, 1%, or 2% milk on hand, you can certainly use those; just be aware the sauce might be slightly less decadent.
- Heavy Cream: This is where the magic really happens for an ultra-creamy mac and cheese! We strongly urge you not to substitute heavy cream if you can help it. Its high fat content ensures an incredibly smooth, luxurious, and decadent cheese sauce that makes all the difference in this baked dish.
- Cheese: The heart and soul of any mac and cheese! We believe the combination of extra sharp cheddar cheese and Colby Jack cheese offers the best balance of tangy bite and melt-in-your-mouth creaminess. However, feel free to use your favorite cheeses! Good alternatives or additions include Gruyère, Fontina, Monterey Jack, or even a touch of smoked Gouda for depth. A critical tip for the best results: **always grate your own cheese from a block.** Pre-bagged shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents like cellulose, which can prevent the cheese from melting smoothly, resulting in a grainy or clumpy sauce. Freshly grated cheese melts like a dream, creating an incredibly smooth and luscious sauce.
- Seasonings: We keep it simple and effective with salt and freshly ground black pepper to season the cheese sauce to perfection. For the breadcrumbs, a touch of paprika adds a beautiful golden color and a subtle, warm flavor. Don’t be shy with a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of dry mustard in the sauce for an extra layer of savory complexity.
- Panko Bread Crumbs: While regular breadcrumbs can be used, we highly recommend panko bread crumbs for their superior texture. Panko crumbs are larger, flakier, and absorb less oil, resulting in a much crunchier, lighter, and more satisfying golden topping. They are, quite simply, darn delicious!
Helpful Kitchen Tools You’ll Need:
To make your baked mac and cheese experience as smooth as possible, gather these essential kitchen tools:
- 13×9 baking pan or a similar-sized casserole dish: The perfect size for this recipe.
- Medium saucepan: For preparing that rich, creamy cheese sauce.
- Wire whisk: Indispensable for creating a lump-free roux and a perfectly smooth cheese sauce.
- Cheese grater: For grating your fresh blocks of cheese – a non-negotiable step for the best results!
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring and serving without scratching your cookware.
Mastering the Craft: How to Make Our Easy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Don’t let the thought of making homemade mac and cheese intimidate you. This recipe breaks it down into simple, manageable steps, ensuring a delicious outcome every time. Here’s a quick overview of the process:
- Preheat your oven and prepare your baking dish.
- Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente and transfer it to the baking dish.
- Prepare the rich, homemade creamy cheese sauce.
- Pour the luscious cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni.
- Season your breadcrumbs and sprinkle them generously over the macaroni mixture.
- Bake in the oven until bubbly and golden brown.
Let’s dive into the details:
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Mac and Cheese
To begin, get a large pot of salted water boiling vigorously. While the water is heating up, take a moment to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray your 9×13 inch baking pan or casserole dish with cooking spray. This crucial prep work ensures your mac and cheese won’t stick and your oven is ready for baking as soon as you’re done assembling.
Once the water boils, add your elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until it’s al dente – meaning it’s still firm to the bite. It’s important not to overcook the pasta at this stage, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside in your prepared baking dish.
While your pasta is cooking, turn your attention to the heart of the dish: the cheese sauce. This is achieved by creating a simple yet effective roux. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once completely melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, whisking continuously. This cooks out the raw flour taste and creates a golden, nutty roux, which is the foundation for a thick and smooth sauce.
Next, slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking constantly as the mixture heats up and begins to thicken. Bring it to a gentle simmer, but do not boil. Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency – thick enough to coat the back of a spoon – remove the saucepan from the heat. This is important to prevent the cheese from becoming stringy or greasy. Now, gradually add your freshly grated cheeses, stirring constantly until they are completely melted and the sauce is wonderfully creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adding more as needed to achieve your perfect flavor profile.
Once your irresistible cheese sauce is ready, immediately pour that scrumptious, velvety mixture evenly over the drained elbow macaroni in your baking pan. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently toss and ensure every single noodle is thoroughly coated in cheesy goodness.
For that signature crunch, prepare your topping. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with paprika, ensuring the paprika is evenly distributed for a beautiful color and subtle flavor. Generously sprinkle this seasoned breadcrumb mixture over the entire surface of the cheese-covered macaroni. Here’s a fantastic tip from Grammy: lightly spray the breadcrumbs with cooking spray oil. This simple trick helps the crumbs become exceptionally crispy and achieve a gorgeous golden-brown finish during baking!
Finally, slide your assembled casserole into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the sides are delightfully bubbly and the breadcrumb topping has transformed into a lovely golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely intoxicating! Mmmmmm.
If, after 20 minutes, your breadcrumb topping isn’t quite as golden and crispy as you’d like, you have a secret weapon: the broiler! Carefully turn your oven to broil (keep a close eye on it!) and pop the dish back in for just a minute or two. Broiling works very quickly, so watch it like a hawk to prevent burning. The goal is a perfect golden crust, not charcoal!
See? I know your stomach is growling now… and so is mine! This incredible baked macaroni and cheese recipe is a fantastic choice for gatherings, potlucks, and parties. It generously serves 8 people as a hearty main meal and even more when offered as a delightful side dish. It’s guaranteed to be a hit!
We truly hope you cherish this delicious family recipe for easy baked macaroni and cheese as much as we do. The homemade cheese sauce is absolutely the best, creating a deliciously creamy and satisfying end result. Enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!
Tips for the Best Baked Macaroni and Cheese Every Time
- Grate Your Own Cheese: As mentioned, this is a game-changer! Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly for a superior texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Boil your elbow macaroni to a firm al dente. It will continue to cook and absorb flavor in the oven, so slightly undercooked is better than mushy.
- Room Temperature Dairy: Using milk and heavy cream that are at room temperature can help them incorporate more smoothly into the roux and prevent the sauce from seizing.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper in your cheese sauce. Taste and adjust as you go. A pinch of dry mustard powder or a dash of nutmeg can also enhance the cheese flavor without being overpowering.
- The Power of Panko: For the ultimate crunchy topping, Panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended. Their larger, lighter texture creates a crisper crust than standard breadcrumbs.
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making for easier, cleaner servings.
Customizing Your Mac and Cheese: Delicious Variations
While this classic recipe is perfect as is, it’s also wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking:
- Add Protein: Fold in cooked, crumbled bacon, diced ham, shredded chicken, or even ground beef for a heartier meal.
- Vegetable Boost: Enhance nutrition and flavor with sautéed mushrooms, steamed broccoli florets, frozen peas, or roasted bell peppers stirred into the pasta before baking.
- Spice It Up: For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or a smoky paprika to the cheese sauce.
- Cheese Exploration: Experiment with different cheese blends! Try adding Gruyère for nuttiness, Fontina for extra meltiness, or even a smoked Gouda for a deep, complex flavor.
Serving Suggestions and Storage
What to Serve with Baked Mac and Cheese
Baked mac and cheese can stand alone as a complete meal, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside:
- Grilled or roasted chicken or pork chops.
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
- A hearty protein like steak or pot roast for a truly indulgent dinner.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Leftover baked mac and cheese is a treat! Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat:
- Oven: For best results, reheat in the oven. Add a splash of milk over the top (about 1-2 tablespoons per serving) to help rehydrate the sauce. Cover with foil and bake at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. Remove foil for the last few minutes if you want to crisp up the topping again.
- Microwave: For a quicker option, portion out servings and microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally, until heated through. The topping won’t be as crispy, but it will still be delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Baked Mac and Cheese
Can I make baked mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can assemble the entire casserole (without the breadcrumbs) a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then sprinkle with the seasoned breadcrumbs and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Can I freeze baked mac and cheese?
Baked mac and cheese can be frozen, though the texture might change slightly upon reheating, especially the pasta. For best results, freeze individual portions in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.
What’s the best cheese for mac and cheese?
For a classic flavor, sharp cheddar is essential. The combination with Colby Jack, as used in this recipe, provides a wonderful balance of tang and creamy melt. However, many cheeses work well, including Gruyère, Fontina, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a milder, stretchier result.
Why is my mac and cheese grainy or oily?
A grainy texture is almost always due to using pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that interfere with smooth melting. Always grate your own cheese from a block for the best results! An oily sauce usually means the cheese was added to a sauce that was too hot, causing the fats to separate. Remove the sauce from the heat before stirring in the cheese, and stir until just melted.
How can I make my baked mac and cheese spicier?
To add a spicy kick, you can include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce (like Tabasco or Sriracha) to your cheese sauce. You could also mix in finely diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled) with the pasta before baking.
More Macaroni and Cheese Recipes
Oh, we love, love, love different kinds of mac and cheese around here! Be sure to try my Instant Pot Mac and Cheese for a quick and easy method, it’s one of my favorites. And if you’re looking for a full-fledged meal with meat, the Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta is just the thing. One of my favorite twists on macaroni and cheese is this delightful Rotini, Peas and Cheese, and this super quick Stovetop Mac and Cheese is great for a speedy lunch or weeknight dinner!
More Delicious Side Dish Recipes to Explore
- Perfectly Roasted Asparagus
- Creamy Broccoli Casserole
- Sweet and Savory Glazed Carrots
- Cheesy Bacon Chive Twice Baked Potatoes
- Incredibly Crispy Roast Potatoes
- Easy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
- Classic Creamed Corn
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni cooked to al dente
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 cups freshly shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups freshly shredded Colby Jack cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ½ cup Panko bread crumbs
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Cooking spray oil for baking pan and breadcrumb topping
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking pan with cooking spray. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and spread the cooked macaroni evenly into the prepared baking pan.
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In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 30-60 seconds, whisking continuously, to form a smooth roux.
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Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking constantly as the mixture heats and thickens to a gentle simmer (do not boil).
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Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add in the freshly shredded cheeses and stir until completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed for your preference.
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Pour the entire cheese mixture evenly over the cooked macaroni in the baking pan, ensuring all noodles are coated.
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In a small separate bowl, combine the Panko bread crumbs and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
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Lightly spray the bread crumb topping with cooking spray oil. This helps the crumbs get extra crispy and golden brown (a tip from grandma!).
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Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the macaroni and cheese is bubbling around the edges and the topping is beautifully golden brown. If needed, you can briefly broil for 1-2 minutes to achieve a crispier top, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
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Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving warm for the best texture. Enjoy!
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.