Description
Craving the ultimate comfort food? This Homemade Baked Mac And Cheese is your go-to for a creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly golden casserole that feeds a crowd and never disappoints. Packed with sharp cheddar and gooey mozzarella, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, holidays, or anytime you need a quick breakfast, easy dinner, or hearty side for your favorite food ideas. Family-friendly, super easy, and always satisfying—this is a classic everyone should know!
Ingredients
12 ounces elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus 2 tablespoons for topping)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until just al dente (about 1 minute less than package directions). Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 1-2 minutes (do not brown).
4. Slowly whisk in milk, continuing to whisk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, until thickened.
5. Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Add Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
6. Add drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly. Pour into prepared baking dish.
7. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over macaroni.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until topping is golden and cheese is bubbling.
9. Let stand 5-10 minutes before serving for creamiest texture.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce—pre-shredded cheese can make it grainy.
For extra creaminess, stir in 1/4 cup sour cream with the cheese.
Bake uncovered for a crispy top, or cover loosely with foil if you prefer a softer crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8th casserole
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, baked pasta, easy dinner, comfort food, casserole