BEST BAKED MAC AND CHEESE

Imagine golden, bubbly cheese blanketing perfectly cooked pasta, with every bite a creamy, comforting explosion. This Baked Mac and Cheese recipe isn’t just dinner; it’s a hug in a dish, and I promise you’ll be making it again and again!

The Only Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe You’ll Ever Need

Okay, friend, let’s be honest: there are a million mac and cheese recipes out there. But *this* one? This is the one that will become your go-to. It’s rich, it’s creamy, it has that perfect crispy top, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. We’re talking serious comfort food that’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. We’ll walk through everything together, step-by-step, so you’ll feel like a pro in no time!

What Makes This Recipe So Special?

I’ve tested this recipe countless times to get it just right. Here’s what sets it apart:

• The Cheese Sauce: We’re not just melting cheese here. We’re building a luscious, flavorful sauce using a roux as our base. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture that won’t separate or become grainy.
• The Cheese Blend: Forget just cheddar! We’re using a blend of cheeses for depth and complexity.
• The Topping: That crispy, golden topping is everything! We’ll talk about options for achieving the perfect crunch.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This recipe is fantastic for making ahead of time. Assemble it, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to eat. Perfect for potlucks or busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Pasta

• 1 pound elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)

Cheese Sauce

• 6 tablespoons butter
• 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (whole milk is best)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but highly recommended)
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or medium)
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (or other melting cheese, like Monterey Jack)

Topping (Optional)

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Gather Your Equipment

Before you start, make sure you have the following on hand:

• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Colander
• Large saucepan for cheese sauce
• Whisk
• 9×13 inch baking dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Get Started: Cook the Pasta

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package directions, but cook it a minute or two *less* than the recommended time. You want it slightly undercooked because it will continue to cook in the oven.
3. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, making sure to smooth out any lumps before adding more.
4. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
6. Add the cheddar cheese and Gruyere cheese, a handful at a time, stirring until completely melted and smooth.

Combine and Bake

1. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
2. Pour the mac and cheese into the prepared baking dish.

Add the Topping (Optional)

1. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and melted butter.
2. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.

Bake It!

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the mac and cheese is bubbly.
2. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for the BEST Baked Mac and Cheese

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Undercooking the pasta slightly is key to preventing it from becoming mushy in the oven.
• Use High-Quality Cheese: The quality of your cheese will directly impact the flavor of your mac and cheese. Opt for block cheese and shred it yourself for the best results. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting as smoothly.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the cheese sauce before adding the pasta and adjust the salt, pepper, and nutmeg to your liking.
• Get Creative with the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. Some other great options include Fontina, Gouda, Havarti, and Pepper Jack.
• Add Some Heat: A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can add a subtle kick to your mac and cheese.
• Broil for Extra Crunch: For an extra-crispy topping, broil the mac and cheese for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Variations to Try

• Bacon Mac and Cheese: Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the mac and cheese before baking.
• Lobster Mac and Cheese: Fold in cooked lobster meat for a decadent treat.
• Vegetarian Mac and Cheese: Add roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or bell peppers to the mac and cheese.
• Jalapeño Popper Mac and Cheese: Add diced jalapeños, cream cheese, and a sprinkle of bacon for a spicy, cheesy twist.

If you’re looking for a quicker version, try my Mac And Cheese recipe! For a crowd-pleasing dish without all the oven time, consider the Slow Cooker Mac And Cheese. Want to add a little kick? You might like the Garlic Shrimp Mac And Cheese. For a BBQ twist, try the Smoky Bbq Chicken Mac And Cheese or the Bbq Chicken Mac. And if you’re after something hearty and filling, the Crock Pot Chili Mac is a winner!

Make-Ahead Instructions

This Baked Mac and Cheese is perfect for making ahead of time. Simply assemble the mac and cheese (including the topping, if using) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time. You may also need to cover it loosely with foil to prevent the topping from browning too quickly.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover Baked Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Mac and Cheese is a fantastic side dish or a satisfying main course. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops.
• Pair it with a simple salad for a complete meal.
• Serve it as part of a potluck or holiday gathering.
• Add a scoop of chili for a comforting and hearty meal.

Troubleshooting

• My cheese sauce is grainy: This can happen if the cheese is overheated. Be sure to remove the saucepan from the heat before adding the cheese, and stir until just melted.
• My mac and cheese is dry: This can happen if the pasta absorbs too much of the sauce. Make sure to use enough sauce to coat the pasta generously. You can also add a splash of milk or cream before baking to add moisture.
• My topping is burning: Cover the baking dish loosely with foil during the last few minutes of baking to prevent the topping from burning.

Final Thoughts

There you have it! My ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese recipe. I know it might seem a little intimidating at first, but trust me, it’s worth the effort. With a little practice, you’ll be whipping up batches of this creamy, cheesy goodness in no time. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a mac and cheese masterpiece that everyone will love. Enjoy!