Here’s a classic baked macaroni and cheese recipe—rich, creamy inside with a golden, crispy top. Pure comfort food 🤍
🧀 Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 8 oz (2 cups) elbow macaroni
- 3 cups shredded cheese (sharp cheddar is classic; mix with mozzarella or Gruyère if you like)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional but recommended)
Topping (optional but great):
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Boil macaroni in salted water until just al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes (don’t brown).
- Slowly whisk in milk until smooth.
- Cook until slightly thickened.
- Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, mustard powder.
- Remove from heat and add 2½ cups cheese, stirring until melted.
- Combine
- Stir cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce.
- Pour into a greased baking dish.
- Add Topping
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
- Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over cheese.
- Bake
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Broil 2–3 minutes if you want an extra-crispy top (watch closely).
🌟 Tips for the Best Baked Mac & Cheese
- Grate your own cheese—it melts smoother
- Don’t overbake or it can dry out
- Add a splash of milk before baking if it looks thick
🔥 Delicious Variations
- Southern style: add a pinch of cayenne + an egg to the sauce
- Creamier: mix in ¼ cup cream cheese
- Loaded: stir in bacon, ham, or caramelized onions
- Healthier: add steamed broccoli or spinach
If you want, I can also give you:
- a Southern baked mac & cheese
- a no-flour version
- or a make-ahead holiday version
Just tell me 🧀😊
