Homemade Baked Mac And Cheese Recipe

When you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and comforting, nothing beats a classic Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese. With its perfectly cooked pasta, creamy cheese sauce, and crispy golden topping, this dish is a crowd-pleaser, whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering. Plus, it’s a breeze to make with simple ingredients that deliver rich flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Mac and Cheese

If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes, this recipe will hit all the right notes. The combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheese gives the sauce a deep, flavorful profile while keeping the dish velvety smooth. The addition of a crispy panko-Parmesan topping adds just the right amount of texture to balance the creaminess. Best of all, this recipe is easy to customize, so you can make it your own with just a few tweaks.

Ingredients for Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Here’s everything you need to make the perfect Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese:

• 16 oz elbow macaroni, cooked (or other tubular pasta like penne or rigatoni)
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 cups panko crumbs
• 4 tbsp butter, melted
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)

this RECIPE

Choosing the Best Cheeses for Mac and Cheese

The secret to an irresistible mac and cheese is in the cheese! Sharp cheddar offers a bold, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the smooth, creamy Gruyere. Gruyere brings a nutty richness that elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. You can also experiment with other cheeses, like mozzarella for extra stringiness or Monterey Jack for a milder taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Baked Mac and Cheese

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this cheesy masterpiece:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 3-quart or 4-quart baking dish and set it aside.
2. Cook the pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni one minute shy of the al dente stage, according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and transfer it to a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside.
3. Prepare the cheese sauce: In a deep saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and continue whisking for about 1 minute until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
4. Add the milk and cream: Slowly whisk in 3 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream until smooth. Keep whisking until bubbles form on the surface, then cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Incorporate the cheeses: Gradually add 2 cups of shredded cheddar and 2 cups of shredded Gruyere to the sauce. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and thick.
6. Season the sauce: Add salt and pepper to taste. This step is crucial to bringing out the flavors of the cheese.
7. Mix the pasta and sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and stir until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy mixture.
8. Assemble the dish: Pour half of the mac and cheese into the prepared baking dish, then sprinkle with 2 cups of the remaining shredded cheddar and Gruyere mixture. Add the rest of the mac and cheese on top.
9. Make the topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko crumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the pasta.
10. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for a Creamy Cheese Sauce

To ensure your cheese sauce turns out perfectly smooth and creamy, follow these tips:

• Whisk constantly: As you add the flour, milk, and cream, keep whisking to avoid any lumps.
• Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. For best results, shred your cheese fresh.
• Avoid high heat: Keep the heat on medium to prevent the cheese from burning or becoming oily.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can result in mushy mac and cheese. Stop just before it reaches al dente.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your cheese sauce with salt and pepper. Cheese can lose some of its flavor when melted, so seasoning is key to a delicious dish.
• Using too much flour: Too much flour can make your sauce thick and pasty. Stick to the recommended amount for a silky texture.

How to Customize Your Baked Mac and Cheese

Feel free to make this recipe your own! Here are a few variations you can try:

• Add protein: Toss in cooked chicken, crispy turkey bacon, or sausage to add some heartiness.
• Spice it up: Mix in chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
• Vegetable boost: Stir in cooked broccoli, spinach, or peas to add some extra nutrients and texture.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Presentation is everything! For a dinner party, serve this baked mac and cheese in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a fun, elevated touch. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. For a family meal, bring the baking dish straight to the table and let everyone dig in. Pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which might be rare!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Storing: Place the mac and cheese in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help retain the crispy topping.
• Freezing: You can freeze baked mac and cheese before adding the panko topping. Store in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and add the panko topping before baking.

FAQs About Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Why is my mac and cheese dry?
This usually happens if the sauce wasn’t creamy enough or if it was baked too long. Be sure to coat the pasta generously in sauce and avoid overbaking.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step and refrigerate it. Just add the topping and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Just be sure to cook the gluten-free pasta according to package directions and follow the same recipe steps.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like homemade baked mac and cheese – the creamy sauce, the gooey cheese, and the crunchy topping come together to create the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, a special occasion, or a cozy night in, this recipe will not disappoint. Be sure to give it a try and share your results with friends and family!

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