Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy)
If you’re on the hunt for a dish that delivers warmth and comfort, this Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe is your answer! Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden crunchy layer, this delightful casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles around the table. The recipe’s versatility allows you to whip it up quickly or prepare it ahead of time for those busy days when you crave something satisfying without hours in the kitchen. Once you try it, this creamy macaroni bake will surely become a beloved staple in your home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Cook elbow macaroni in boiling water according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, whisk in flour to create a roux for about 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add milk while whisking continuously until thickened (about 5 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted into a smooth sauce.
- Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and pour into the greased baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheddar cheese and panko breadcrumbs. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg