Here’s a recipe for Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese that’s sure to impress—it’s rich, cheesy, and baked to perfection. This contest-winning version is everything you want in mac and cheese—comforting, creamy, and extra cheesy!
Ingredients:
- For the pasta:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
- For the cheese sauce:
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Gruyère for extra flavor)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for that gooey stretchiness)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for added richness)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk (preferably warmed)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional but recommended for extra depth)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky kick)
- For the topping:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for crunch)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray it with cooking spray.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions, but make sure to cook it al dente (a little firmer than usual, since it will cook further in the oven). Drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to make a roux (this helps thicken the sauce).
- Gradually add the warmed milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
- Add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine the pasta and sauce: Pour the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat all the pasta evenly.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese for a crunchy golden crust.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish and serve: If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve hot and enjoy that creamy, cheesy goodness!
Tips:
- For extra creaminess, you can add a bit of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream into the cheese sauce.
- Add-ins like cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even some jalapeños for a kick can elevate this mac and cheese even more.
- If you like your mac and cheese a little extra crispy on top, leave it under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end, but keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
This mac and cheese is perfect for any occasion and will definitely earn you rave reviews! Let me know how it turns out if you give it a go!