There is something deeply satisfying about the creamy, golden, and comforting layers of the Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe. This classic dish combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich, velvety cheese sauce that’s baked to bubbly perfection with a crispy topping. It’s a soul-warming crowd-pleaser that hits all the right notes—ooey-gooey cheese, a hint of savory spices, and a crunchy crust that keeps you coming back for more. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a potluck favorite, this recipe makes every bite feel like a warm hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple ingredients is all it takes to create magic in this dish. Each component brings something special—whether it’s the sharpness of cheddar, the smooth melt of mozzarella, or the crispy crunch of breadcrumbs. Together, they build layers of texture and flavor that make this dish unforgettable.
- 1 lb elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape that holds sauce beautifully and offers a fantastic bite.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Brings a rich, tangy flavor and vibrant color essential for classic mac and cheese.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds meltiness and creaminess that balances the sharp cheddar.
- 1/4 cup butter: A must for the roux base, giving richness and a silky texture to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Works with the butter to thicken the sauce perfectly, ensuring it clings to every noodle.
- 2 cups milk: The creamy foundation that brings the cheese sauce together smoothly.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle warmth and depth without overpowering the cheese.
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder: Gives a gentle tang that enhances the cheese flavor perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional): For a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with creamy pasta.
How to Make Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set it aside, so it’s ready to soak up all that cheesy goodness.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter gently. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking it for about one minute until it’s golden and slightly nutty-smelling—this step is crucial for that perfect thick sauce. Pour in the milk gradually while whisking to avoid lumps, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once smooth, stir in the garlic powder, mustard powder, and season with salt and pepper. Finally, toss in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until the sauce is rich, creamy, and fully melted.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Pour the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and mix until every piece is beautifully coated. This combination is what makes the Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe so irresistibly creamy.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Transfer the cheesy pasta into your prepared baking dish and sprinkle the optional breadcrumbs evenly over the top for that classic crunchy finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the top turns golden brown and bubbles gloriously, hinting at the decadent flavors inside.
How to Serve Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top to introduce a fresh contrast that cuts through the richness. A few cracked black pepper flakes or a light dusting of smoked paprika can also add beautiful color and a flavor twist that impresses.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans to balance out the meal. For something heartier, serve alongside barbecue ribs or crispy fried chicken for a comforting feast that feels festive and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this mac and cheese in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a personalized touch. You can also mix in cooked bacon bits, caramelized onions, or even roasted garlic into the sauce before baking. These little touches brighten up the presentation and pack extra flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover baked mac and cheese in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It keeps beautifully and reheats nicely, making it perfect for quick meals later.
Freezing
You can freeze the mac and cheese before baking by covering the dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and the top is bubbly again. You can also reheat single servings in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep it creamy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! Mild cheddar and mozzarella work wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with gouda, fontina, or Monterey Jack for new flavors. Just make sure the cheese melts well to keep that creamy texture.
Is it necessary to bake the mac and cheese?
Baking adds a lovely crust and melds the flavors nicely, but you can enjoy stovetop mac and cheese without baking. If you prefer creamy without crust, just skip the baking step after mixing the pasta and cheese sauce.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the roux. Just double-check your breadcrumbs are gluten-free or omit them.
What’s the purpose of mustard powder in mac and cheese?
Mustard powder adds a subtle tang and depth that balances the richness of the cheese while enhancing its flavor. It’s a secret ingredient that lifts the whole dish.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
This recipe is naturally vegetarian as it contains no meat. Just make sure your cheese is suitable for vegetarians if that is important to you.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving comfort food done right, I can’t recommend the Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe enough. It’s creamy, cheesy, and crispy—all the things that make mac and cheese a favorite in hearts and kitchens everywhere. Give it a try, and watch how this simple, lovingly crafted dish becomes one of your go-to recipes for family dinners and special occasions alike.
Print
Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic that’s perfect for any occasion. Combining tender elbow macaroni with a rich homemade cheese sauce made from cheddar and mozzarella, and finished with a golden breadcrumb topping, this dish is baked to bubbly perfection in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Macaroni
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping (Optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Make Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a smooth roux without browning.
- Add Milk and Seasonings: Slowly whisk in the milk to avoid lumps, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper to create the flavorful base of the sauce.
- Incorporate Cheese: Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the hot sauce, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until the pasta is thoroughly coated. Transfer this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. If using, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy crust.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can use whole milk or a combination of milk and cream.
- Breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a nice crunchy texture.
- Feel free to add extra spices like paprika or cayenne for a little heat.
- You can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack for variation.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
