The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Name: The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients: 1 pound elbow macaroni; 4 tablespoons butter; 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 4 cups milk; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection, this homemade baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With a blend of rich cheeses and a crispy topping, this dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, and cozy nights in. Elevate your mac and cheese experience with this simple yet delicious recipe that combines ease and flavor in every bite.

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2025-11-26T11:59:07.099Z

This recipe is a family favorite that has been passed down for generations. It's not just a dish; it's a staple of our family gatherings.

The Perfect Blend of Cheese

One of the key elements of a great mac and cheese is the perfect cheese blend. For this recipe, we use sharp cheddar and mozzarella, but feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of blue cheese can add a delightful twist. The sharp cheddar brings a bold flavor, while mozzarella contributes a wonderful creaminess and stretch. Together, they create a rich, gooey texture that’s simply irresistible.

For those who enjoy a bit of tang, consider adding a splash of cream cheese or a little bit of parmesan to the sauce. This not only enhances the cheesy flavor but also adds depth to the overall dish. Remember, the quality of the cheese matters—using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded can make a significant difference in taste and meltability.

Tips for the Best Texture

Achieving the perfect texture in baked mac and cheese involves a few simple tips. First, make sure to cook the pasta al dente; it should be firm to the bite before baking. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when combined with the creamy cheese sauce. Additionally, mixing a bit of the pasta cooking water into the cheese sauce can enhance creaminess and help the sauce adhere better.

A crispy topping is essential for the ultimate mac and cheese experience. Make your breadcrumb topping special by mixing in some grated cheese, herbs, or spices. To elevate the crunch even further, you might also consider adding some crushed crackers or potato chips to the breadcrumbs before sprinkling them on top.

Serving Suggestions

Baked mac and cheese is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. You can enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with a variety of sides. A fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables can help balance the richness of the mac and cheese. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside barbecue ribs or fried chicken for a Southern twist.

If you're looking to add some protein, cooked bacon or shredded chicken can be mixed in before baking. Even sautéed vegetables like broccoli or spinach can shine in this dish. Don’t hesitate to get creative; baked mac and cheese is a blank canvas that welcomes any ingredients you love.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients before you begin.

Ingredients for Baked Mac and Cheese

1 pound elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to ensure a perfect baked mac and cheese.

Boil the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, whisking until smooth. Gradually add in the milk, stirring constantly. Cook until thickened, then remove from heat and stir in the cheeses until melted.

Combine and Bake

Combine the cooked pasta and cheese sauce in a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs for a crispy texture. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, baked mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or you can microwave individual servings for a few minutes.

For best results when reheating, cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. You might consider adding a splash of milk to the mac and cheese before reheating to restore its creamy consistency.

Customization Ideas

One of the great things about baked mac and cheese is its versatility. You can easily customize this dish to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try incorporating different flavor profiles with ingredients like buffalo sauce or pesto?

Vegetarians can enjoy this comforting dish by adding in sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or even a handful of spinach. And for a gourmet touch, truffle oil drizzled over the top before serving can elevate this simple dish into a decadent experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheese blends!

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and flour alternatives.