Baked mac and cheese is a comfort food classic that combines creamy cheese sauce with tender pasta, all topped with a crunchy, golden-brown layer. This recipe is a great way to elevate a traditional dish into something truly special. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just a cozy night in, this baked mac and cheese will surely impress.
Ingredients for Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese
- Elbow Macaroni: 2 cups (dry)
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (shredded)
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup (shredded)
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup (grated)
- Milk: 2 cups
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Butter: 4 tablespoons
- All-Purpose Flour: 4 tablespoons
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (for topping)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Mustard Powder: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
- Egg: 1 large (beaten)
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons (chopped, for garnish)
How to Make Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese
- Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your oven is at the right temperature when it’s time to bake the mac and cheese. - Cook the Macaroni:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. - Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture becomes a light golden color.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and mustard powder (if using).
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Beat the egg in a small bowl and then stir it into the mac and cheese mixture. This helps to bind the ingredients together and gives the dish a creamier texture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.
- Add the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. This will create a crispy, golden topping.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. If you prefer an extra-crispy topping, you can broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the baked mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the cheese sauce set and make it easier to scoop out portions.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and added flavor.
About the Main Ingredients
Elbow Macaroni: This small, curved pasta shape is ideal for holding onto the creamy cheese sauce, making it a perfect choice for baked mac and cheese.
Cheddar Cheese: A sharp cheddar cheese adds a robust flavor and helps create a creamy texture when melted. Using a combination of sharp and mild cheddar can balance the flavors.
Mozzarella Cheese: Known for its meltiness, mozzarella cheese enhances the creamy texture of the sauce while adding a subtle flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: This hard, aged cheese adds a nutty, salty flavor to the dish and contributes to the crispy topping.
Butter and Flour: These ingredients form the roux, which thickens the cheese sauce and creates a smooth consistency.
Milk and Heavy Cream: These dairy products provide the base for the cheese sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture.
Breadcrumbs: The topping adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy mac and cheese and is enhanced by a bit of melted butter.
Spices and Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and mustard powder all contribute to the overall flavor profile, enhancing the richness and depth of the cheese sauce.
Enjoy your Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese as a comforting and delicious dish that’s sure to be a hit at any meal!
