Cheesy

Baked Mac And Cheese

Name: Baked Mac And Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) macaroni; 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter; 1/2 cup (115g) all-purpose flour; 2 cups (475ml) milk; 1 cup (115g) grated sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup (55g) grated parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup (30g) grated mozzarella cheese; 1 tsp (5g) salt; 1/4 tsp (1.25g) black pepper; 2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh parsley

By Priya Norwood · June 19, 2026 · Cheesy

Prep20 min

Cook35 min

Total55 min

Serves6

There's something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy, baked mac and cheese. It's the kind of dish that never fails to put a smile on everyone's face, and for good reason - it's the epitome of comfort food. As someone who loves spending time in the kitchen, I've always been on the quest for the perfect baked mac and cheese recipe. After countless trials and tweaks, I'm excited to share with you my go-to recipe that never disappoints.

This recipe is special because it's not just about throwing some pasta, cheese, and milk together and hoping for the best. It's about understanding the importance of layering flavors, textures, and temperatures to achieve that perfect golden crust and creamy center. It's a dish that's both humble and impressive, making it perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy night in with a good book.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to your taste by adding different spices, meats, or vegetables. And the best part? It's incredibly easy to make ahead of time, making it a lifesaver for those busy weeknights when you need a dish that's both quick and satisfying.

So, whether you're a mac and cheese aficionado or just looking for a new recipe to add to your repertoire, this baked mac and cheese is sure to become a staple in your household. It's a dish that's all about comfort, love, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with the people you care about.

In this recipe, we'll walk through the steps to create the perfect baked mac and cheese, from selecting the right pasta and cheese to achieving that golden, crispy crust. So, let's get started and make some comfort food magic happen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
It's a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
The dish can be customized to your taste by adding different spices, meats, or vegetables.
It's incredibly easy to make ahead of time, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
The recipe is budget-friendly and can be made with affordable ingredients.
It's a comforting, satisfying dish that's perfect for cozy nights in.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great baked mac and cheese lies in its layers. You want a combination of al dente pasta, a creamy cheese sauce, and a crunchy topping that adds texture and flavor. To achieve this, we'll be using a combination of sharp cheddar, parmesan, and mozzarella cheese, which provides a rich, creamy flavor without becoming too overpowering.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the cooking technique. By cooking the pasta al dente and then baking it in the cheese sauce, we ensure that the pasta absorbs just the right amount of sauce, resulting in a creamy, cheesy dish that's not too dry or too soggy. The baking process also helps to create a golden, crispy crust on top, which adds a nice textural element to the dish.

Finally, the resting time after baking is crucial. It allows the cheese sauce to set and the flavors to meld together, resulting in a dish that's both creamy and well-balanced. By following these steps and using the right combination of ingredients, you'll be able to create a baked mac and cheese that's sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters.

The science behind this recipe lies in the combination of starches, fats, and proteins. The pasta provides a starchy base, while the cheese sauce adds a rich, creamy element. The baking process helps to break down the starches and melt the cheese, resulting in a dish that's both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making the perfect baked mac and cheese, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. You'll want to use a combination of sharp cheddar, parmesan, and mozzarella cheese for the best flavor. Additionally, using high-quality pasta and fresh herbs will elevate the dish and make it even more enjoyable.

Here are the ingredients you'll need to make this delicious baked mac and cheese:

1 lb (450g) macaroniMacaroni is the classic choice for baked mac and cheese, but you can also use other types of pasta such as elbow macaroni or cavatappi. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butterUnsalted butter is recommended to avoid adding extra salt to the dish. You can also use salted butter if that's all you have on hand, just be sure to adjust the amount of salt you add later.
1/2 cup (115g) all-purpose flourAll-purpose flour is used to make the roux, which thickens the cheese sauce. You can also use whole wheat flour or a combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
2 cups (475ml) milkWhole milk is recommended for the creamiest results, but you can also use 2% or skim milk if you prefer a lighter version. Avoid using non-dairy milk alternatives as they can affect the texture of the dish.
1 cup (115g) grated sharp cheddar cheeseSharp cheddar cheese is the star of the show in this recipe, providing a rich, tangy flavor. You can also use other types of cheese such as Gruyère or Gouda, but sharp cheddar is the classic choice.
1/2 cup (55g) grated parmesan cheeseParmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the dish and helps to balance out the richness of the cheddar cheese. You can also use other hard cheeses such as Pecorino or Romano.
1/4 cup (30g) grated mozzarella cheeseMozzarella cheese helps to create a creamy, melty texture in the dish. You can also use other types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or Colby, but mozzarella is the classic choice.
1 tsp (5g) saltSalt enhances the flavor of the dish and helps to bring out the flavors of the cheese. Use a high-quality salt such as kosher salt or sea salt for the best results.
1/4 tsp (1.25g) black pepperBlack pepper adds a subtle kick to the dish and helps to balance out the flavors. Use freshly ground black pepper for the best results.
2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh parsleyFresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor to the dish and helps to balance out the richness of the cheese. You can also use other herbs such as thyme or rosemary, but parsley is the classic choice.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy saucepan or Dutch ovenMedium saucepanColander or strainer9x13 inch baking dishInstant-read thermometerWhiskCheese grater

How to Make Baked Mac And Cheese

1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Drain and set aside.
3
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes or until the mixture is lightly golden and has a nutty aroma.
4
Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
5
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the cheddar, parmesan, and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and chopped parsley. Stir until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
7
Transfer the macaroni mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the macaroni is heated through and the top is lightly golden.
9
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is crispy.
10
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will help the cheese sauce to set and the flavors to meld together.
11
Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
Don't overcook the macaroni or it will become mushy.
Add some spice to the dish by incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Use different types of pasta or cheese to change up the flavor and texture of the dish.
Make the dish ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze for later use.
Add some freshness to the dish by incorporating chopped herbs or a sprinkle of paprika.
Use a variety of cheeses to create a unique and complex flavor profile.
Don't be afraid to experiment and try new things – it's all part of the fun of cooking!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the macaroni, resulting in a mushy texture.
Not using enough cheese, resulting in a bland flavor.
Not whisking the sauce enough, resulting in lumps.
Not letting the dish rest before serving, resulting in a runny sauce.
Not using high-quality ingredients, resulting in a subpar flavor.
Not experimenting and trying new things, resulting in a boring and predictable dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some spice to the dish by incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Use different types of pasta or cheese to change up the flavor and texture of the dish.
Add some freshness to the dish by incorporating chopped herbs or a sprinkle of paprika.
Use a variety of cheeses to create a unique and complex flavor profile.
Add some protein to the dish by incorporating cooked bacon or ham.
Use a different type of milk, such as almond or soy milk, for a non-dairy version.
Add some crunch to the dish by incorporating crushed crackers or crispy breadcrumbs.

What to Serve With Baked Mac And Cheese

This baked mac and cheese is perfect on its own, but it's also great served with a variety of sides. Some ideas include:

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette

Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or Brussels sprouts

Garlic bread or crusty bread for dipping in the cheese sauce

A side of crispy bacon or cooked sausage

A fresh fruit salad or a fruit smoothie for a lighter option

Serve with a simple green saladServe with roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or Brussels sproutsServe with garlic bread or crusty bread for dipping in the cheese sauceServe with a side of crispy bacon or cooked sausageServe with a fresh fruit salad or a fruit smoothie for a lighter option

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This baked mac and cheese can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. To refrigerate, simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to serve, simply thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until hot and bubbly.

To reheat, simply cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat the dish.

It's also important to note that the dish will thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a little bit of milk or cream to thin it out before serving. Simply stir in a small amount of milk or cream until the desired consistency is reached.

Overall, this baked mac and cheese is a versatile and convenient dish that can be made ahead of time and reheated as needed. It's perfect for busy weeknights or for special occasions when you want to impress your guests with a delicious, comforting meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze for later use. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave until hot and bubbly.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can use different types of pasta, such as elbow macaroni or cavatappi. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I add protein to the dish?

Yes, you can add protein to the dish by incorporating cooked bacon or ham. Simply stir in the cooked meat before baking.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can use a different type of milk, such as almond or soy milk, for a non-dairy version. Simply substitute the milk in the recipe with your preferred type.

How do I prevent the dish from becoming too dry?

To prevent the dish from becoming too dry, be sure to not overcook the macaroni and to use enough cheese sauce. You can also add a little bit of milk or cream to thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick.

Can I freeze the dish?

Yes, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the freezer. When you're ready to serve, simply thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until hot and bubbly.

How do I reheat the dish?

To reheat the dish, simply cover it with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat the dish.

Can I make the dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make the dish in a slow cooker. Simply cook the macaroni and cheese sauce on low for 2-3 hours or until the macaroni is tender and the cheese sauce is hot and bubbly.

The Full Recipe

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