Baked Mac & Cheese

Few dishes embody comfort food as universally as baked mac and cheese. Loved by kids and adults alike, this timeless recipe combines tender pasta with layers of rich, velvety cheese sauce for the ultimate indulgence. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a side dish for your holiday feast, baked mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser.

This dish’s versatility is one of its greatest strengths.

Why Baked Mac and Cheese Stands Out

When it comes to baked mac and cheese, the possibilities are endless. While everyone seems to have their own preferred version, the beauty lies in its adaptability. From the types of cheese you choose to the toppings and baking methods, you can tailor this dish to fit your taste perfectly. This recipe highlights a foolproof method my family swears by—balancing gooey cheesiness with a crispy, golden topping for a texture contrast that’s irresistible.

Mastering Homemade Mac and Cheese

Making mac and cheese from scratch might seem intimidating, but it’s easier than you think. Here’s the process simplified:

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling your favorite pasta until just shy of al dente. Remember, the pasta will cook further in the oven.

2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Combine butter and flour to form a roux, whisk in milk, and cook until thickened. Add shredded cheeses to create a creamy sauce.

3. Assemble and Bake: Layer pasta and cheese sauce in a baking dish, adding extra shredded cheese between layers. Top with more cheese and bake until bubbly and golden.

This method ensures your baked mac and cheese achieves the perfect balance of creamy interiors and a slightly crunchy crust.

Pro Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese

• Undercook Your Pasta: Boil pasta 1–2 minutes less than the package instructions to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.

• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that inhibit melting. Grating your own cheese guarantees a smoother sauce.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Warm liquids help thicken the sauce more quickly, so let your milk and cream sit at room temperature while prepping other ingredients.

• Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar and Gruyère are classic choices, consider mixing in mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor profile.

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Creative Variations to Try

Baked mac and cheese is endlessly adaptable. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Add Bacon: Crispy crumbled bacon can be mixed into the pasta or sprinkled on top for extra indulgence.

• Stovetop Option: Prefer to skip baking? Combine the cheese sauce and cooked pasta on the stovetop for a quicker version.

• Crunchy Toppings: Panko breadcrumbs tossed in melted butter, crushed Ritz crackers, or even crumbled potato chips make fantastic toppings.

• Adjust Baking Time: For a crispier topping, bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, then broil for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.

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Preparing Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time

If you’re planning for a busy day, this dish can be prepared in advance:

1. Assemble the mac and cheese without baking.

2. Cover and refrigerate for up to two days.

3. Before baking, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake until bubbly and hot.

While making this dish fresh yields the creamiest results, adding a bit more sauce to the recipe can help maintain its texture when made ahead.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, stir in a splash of milk or cream to restore its creaminess, then warm it in the microwave, stirring frequently to ensure even heating.

The Secret to the Best Mac and Cheese

From freshly shredded cheese to a balance of creamy layers and crispy topping, every detail matters when creating the perfect baked mac and cheese. With its rich flavor and comforting texture, this dish is destined to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether served as a main course or a decadent side, baked mac and cheese is always a hit.

Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb dried elbow pasta

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 cups whole milk

• 2 1/2 cups half-and-half (see Notes below)

• 4 cups shredded medium cheddar cheese, divided (measured after shredding)

• 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese, divided (measured after shredding)

• 1/2 tablespoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

  
  

Instructions

• Preheat and Prepare Preheat your oven to 325°F. Lightly grease a 3-quart (9x13") baking dish and set aside.

• Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dried pasta and cook until 1 minute shy of al dente (per package instructions). Drain, drizzle lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.

• Prep the Cheese Shred the cheeses and mix them together. Divide into three portions: 3 cups for the sauce, 1 1/2 cups for the middle layer, and 1 1/2 cups for the topping.

• Make the Cheese Sauce

  • In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in flour, whisking until it forms a paste-like consistency. Cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.

  • Gradually whisk in 2 cups of the half-and-half until smooth, followed by the remaining half-and-half and whole milk. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens to a slightly thinner version of condensed soup.

  • Remove from heat and stir in salt, pepper, paprika, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese. Once melted, stir in another 1 1/2 cups of cheese until smooth and creamy.

• Assemble the Dish

  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, mixing thoroughly.

  • Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese. Add the remaining pasta mixture and sprinkle the remaining 1 1/2 cups of cheese on top.

• Bake to Perfection Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden on top. Serve hot and enjoy!

  
  

Notes

1. Cheese Substitutions: If Gruyere isn’t available, try substituting it with Swiss or Fontina cheese for a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor.

2. Adjusting Servings: Ingredient amounts in the instructions don’t automatically update with serving size changes. Manually calculate to match the revised amounts from the ingredient list.

3. Customize Your Flavor: Add garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, or a dash of hot sauce for extra zing. Smoked paprika is highly recommended for its depth of flavor.

What to Pair It With

Baked Mac & Cheese pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to any meal. For a hearty dinner, serve it alongside roasted chicken, Honey Brown Sugar Glazed Ham, or a juicy steak. If you're going lighter, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus balance out the richness. For a true comfort food spread, consider classic sides like garlic bread, coleslaw, or even a warm bowl of tomato soup. Its creamy, cheesy goodness complements nearly anything!