Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This baked mac and cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and golden crust, it’s a dish everyone will ask for seconds of. You’ll love how simple it is to make, with straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. It’s also super customizable—add your favorite toppings or mix-ins to make it your own. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to bring smiles to the table!

Recipe

This baked mac and cheese recipe is a classic comfort food dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and perfect for any occasion. With a golden, crispy topping and a rich, velvety cheese sauce, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz elbow macaroni
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions 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 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Notes:

• For extra flavor, add cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, or sautéed onions to the mac and cheese before baking.
• Use a combination of cheeses like Gruyère or Gouda for a more complex flavor profile.

Time:

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Serving: 6-8

Nutrition

Baked mac and cheese is a comforting dish, but it’s also important to ponder its nutritional content. Below is the breakdown per serving.

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my baked mac and cheese with simple sides like a crisp green salad or roasted veggies to balance the richness. A cold glass of lemonade or iced tea works perfectly to refresh your palate between bites. Don’t forget garlic bread—it’s a classic combo that never disappoints!

Side Dishes

When it comes to pairing side dishes with baked mac and cheese, I always think about balance—something fresh or crunchy to complement that creamy, cheesy goodness. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while roasted veggies like broccoli or Brussels sprouts add a savory touch. I love garlic bread for its crunch, and it’s perfect for scooping up any leftover creamy sauces. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll serve it with a charcuterie board featuring different cheese varieties for a fun twist. These sides make the meal feel complete without overpowering the star of the show.

Beverage Pairings

After rounding out the meal with some great sides, let’s not forget about the drinks! When it comes to wine pairings, I love a crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir—they balance the richness of the mac and cheese perfectly. If you’re more into beer options, a smooth lager or a malty amber ale works wonders. Personally, I’ve found that a cold cider adds a rejuvenating twist, especially if the dish has a hint of spice. Whatever you choose, make sure it complements the creamy, cheesy goodness. Cheers to a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious!