Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
Few dishes bring comfort quite like a warm dish of baked mac and cheese. With its creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and golden crispy topping, it is a classic that never fails to satisfy. This recipe combines the rich flavours of multiple cheeses with the perfect baked finish, making it a true crowd pleaser for family dinners, holidays, or casual gatherings
Homemade baked mac and cheese is not just about creating a meal, it is about enjoying a comforting dish that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. Unlike boxed versions, this recipe is made with fresh ingredients, giving you complete control over the creaminess, flavor, and texture. It is a dish that turns simple ingredients into something extraordinary, offering both comfort and richness in every bite
Why You Need This Recipe
This baked mac and cheese recipe stands out because it delivers both creaminess and crunch in one dish. The stovetop base provides a velvety cheese sauce that coats every piece of pasta, while the oven baking step adds a golden breadcrumb topping that elevates it beyond ordinary macaroni. It is perfect for anyone who loves a hearty, homemade dish and wants something satisfying that can serve as a main course or side. Whether you are cooking for a weeknight meal or a holiday spread, this recipe ensures everyone comes back for seconds
Ingredients
The ingredients for this baked mac and cheese are simple and easy to find, yet they come together to create a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. Below is a table with the main ingredients and their approximate calorie count per serving
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 1 pound | 1680 |
| Butter | 6 tbsp | 610 |
| All purpose flour | 6 tbsp | 210 |
| Whole milk | 5 cups | 750 |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | 400 |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 4 cups | 1800 |
| Gruyere cheese | 2 cups | 800 |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup | 400 |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | Negligible |
This combination of ingredients creates a rich and creamy cheese sauce balanced with a crunchy topping for the perfect baked dish
How to Prepare
Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni until just al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. In a large saucepan, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking it for about one minute to remove the raw taste. Gradually add the milk and cream while whisking to ensure a smooth sauce. Once thickened, stir in the cheddar and gruyere cheeses until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Combine the pasta with the cheese sauce and transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter for extra crunch. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F until the top is golden brown and bubbling, about 25 to 30 minutes
Pro Tips
For extra creaminess, use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack along with cheddar and gruyere. To prevent the sauce from becoming grainy, make sure to grate your own cheese instead of using pre shredded varieties. If you want added flavor, sprinkle in paprika, garlic powder, or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Always undercook your pasta slightly so it does not get mushy while baking. For the topping, panko breadcrumbs add an extra crispy texture that complements the creamy base beautifully
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Homemade baked mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, barbecue chicken, or even a crisp green salad to balance its richness. It also works well as a side dish for holiday meals with turkey, ham, or beef roasts. For toppings, you can add crispy bacon bits, caramelized onions, or a drizzle of hot sauce to customize each serving. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives also bring a bright finishing touch that enhances both the flavor and presentation
Conclusion
Homemade baked mac and cheese is a timeless recipe that delivers everything you want in a comfort food dish. With its creamy interior, cheesy flavour, and golden crunchy topping, it is both hearty and satisfying. This recipe is versatile enough to serve as a main dish or side and will surely become a staple in your kitchen. Once you make it from scratch, you will never look at boxed mac and cheese the same way again.
