Print

Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a white baking dish filled with creamy baked mac and cheese topped with golden brown breadcrumbs.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A creamy, comforting baked mac and cheese recipe with a golden, crunchy topping, perfect for a family meal or potluck.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat. Stir in the cheddar cheese and Gruyere cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  6. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
  7. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  8. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
  10. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For an extra cheesy flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce.
  • If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will also work.
  • Feel free to add cooked bacon bits or jalapeños for a flavor variation.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kingscook.com/baked-mac-and-cheese/