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Close-up of creamy, golden-brown Baked Mac and Cheese, perfect for a comforting meal.

Best Baked Mac and Cheese

This baked mac and cheese recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. With its golden-brown topping and rich sauce, it's sure to become a family favorite. It's easy to make and guaranteed to disappear quickly.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • Water for boiling
  • Salt for boiling water
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • Pinch of paprika

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large saucepan or Dutch oven
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the macaroni according to package directions, but slightly undercook it – about 1-2 minutes less than the recommended time. It will continue to cook in the oven.
  3. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
  4. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  5. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This is important to avoid a floury taste!
  6. Slowly whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. This will prevent lumps.
  7. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  8. Remove from heat and stir in the 1 teaspoon of salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  9. Add the cheddar, Gruyere (or Fontina), and Monterey Jack cheese (if using), one handful at a time, stirring until each addition is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  10. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
  11. Pour the mac and cheese into the prepared baking dish.
  12. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and paprika.
  13. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
  14. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the mac and cheese is bubbly.
  15. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce to set up slightly.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use a combination of different cheeses like Gouda, Havarti, or Fontina. You can also add cooked bacon, ham, or shredded chicken for a protein boost. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave in short intervals, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.