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Close-up of a golden-brown Baked Mac and Cheese featuring a bubbly, cheesy crust.

Perfect Baked Mac and Cheese

This baked mac and cheese recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that's baked to golden-brown perfection. Made with a blend of cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan, and topped with crunchy breadcrumbs, it's a guaranteed family favorite. It is perfect as a hearty side or a satisfying main course.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 6 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg optional
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Small bowl
  • Oven
  • Cheese grater

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the macaroni according to package directions, but cook it al dente.
  3. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
  4. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  5. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a roux.
  6. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to smooth out any lumps as you go. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens slightly (5-7 minutes).
  7. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
  8. Add the cheddar cheese, Gruyere cheese, and Parmesan cheese, a little at a time, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  9. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to combine.
  10. Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  11. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter.
  12. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
  13. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the mac and cheese is bubbly.
  14. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Don't overcook the pasta! Al dente is best. Grate your own cheese for optimal melting. Experiment with different cheese combinations such as Monterey Jack, Gouda or Provolone. For a creamier mac and cheese, add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese. For a crispier topping, broil for the last few minutes. Mac and cheese can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerated, and baked later, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.