The Secret to Perfectly Baked Mac & Cheese Every Time Recipe

Introduction

This classic baked mac and cheese recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy comfort dish with a perfectly golden crust every time. Simple ingredients come together to create a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 12 oz elbow macaroni (or cavatappi)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk (warm)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional topping)
• 1 tbsp melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Boil the macaroni in salted water until just al dente, about 1 minute less than the package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
3. Step 3: Slowly whisk in the warm milk and heavy cream until smooth. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Step 4: Remove the sauce from heat. Stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
5. Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well to coat evenly.
6. Step 6: Pour the mixture into a baking dish. If using, combine the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
7. Step 7: Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
8. Step 8: Let the mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Tips & Variations

• Use freshly shredded cheese for the creamiest texture and better melting.
• Undercook the pasta by 1 minute to keep it firm after baking.
• Add a spoonful of cream cheese to the sauce for extra richness.
• Mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan and fresh parsley for a flavorful, crisp topping.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can help maintain creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, short pasta shapes like cavatappi, shells, or penne work well because they hold onto the cheese sauce nicely.

Is it necessary to bake the mac and cheese?

Baking adds a delicious golden crust and thickens the dish, but you can serve it stovetop style if you prefer a creamier texture without the crispy topping.

The Secret to Perfectly Baked Mac & Cheese Every Time Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 55 reviews

This classic Baked Mac & Cheese recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy pasta dish with a perfectly golden, bubbly crust every time. Featuring a rich cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, it is baked with a buttery breadcrumb topping that adds a delightful crunch. Ideal for comforting family dinners or special occasions.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 12 oz elbow macaroni (or cavatappi)

Cheese Sauce

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk (warm)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

Topping

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
• 1 tbsp melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

1. Boil Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente, about 1 minute less than package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make Roux: In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden to form the roux.
3. Add Milk and Cream: Slowly whisk in 3 cups of warm whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream until smooth. Continue cooking for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar, 1 cup mozzarella, and 1/2 cup Parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir well to coat evenly.
6. Prepare for Baking: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a baking dish. Combine 1/2 cup breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top as an optional topping.
7. Bake: Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Rest and Serve: Let the baked mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Notes

• Use freshly shredded cheese for the creamiest texture.
• Undercook the pasta by 1 minute so it stays firm after baking.
• Add a spoonful of cream cheese to the cheese sauce for extra richness.
• Mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a crispier, flavorful topping.

Keywords: baked mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese recipe, creamy mac and cheese, cheesy pasta bake, comfort food