Save A creamy, nostalgic classic featuring tender elbow macaroni baked in a rich, cheesy sauce with a golden breadcrumb topping. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
This mac & cheese recipe brings back fond memories of cozy family dinners filled with warmth and smiles.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni
- Cheese Sauce: 4 cups (1 L) whole milk, 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour, 2 cups (200 g) sharp cheddar cheese shredded, 1 cup (100 g) Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese shredded, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp ground mustard optional, 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper optional
- Topping: 1 cup (60 g) panko breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter melted, 1/2 cup (50 g) sharp cheddar cheese shredded
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook macaroni:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni until just al dente, about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make roux:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Prepare sauce:
- Gradually whisk in the milk. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
- Add cheese and seasoning:
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Gruyère (or Monterey Jack) cheeses until fully melted. Season with salt, pepper, mustard, and cayenne if using.
- Combine macaroni and sauce:
- Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a large bowl. Mix well, then transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Add topping:
- In a small bowl, toss breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle over macaroni. Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheddar.
- Bake:
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and bubbling. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Save This dish always brings the family together, sparking laughter and shared stories over every creamy, cheesy bite.
Nutrition Facts
Each serving contains approximately 460 calories, 24 grams of total fat, 41 grams of carbohydrates, and 19 grams of protein.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (dairy) and wheat (gluten). May contain traces of nuts or soy depending on cheese or breadcrumbs used; always check ingredient labels.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this mac & cheese with a crisp green salad and a glass of Chardonnay for a delightful meal.
Save This classic baked mac & cheese recipe is sure to become a staple in your home for years to come.
Kitchen Guide
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is ideal as it holds the cheese sauce well and bakes evenly with a tender texture.
- → Can I use different cheeses in the sauce?
Yes, substituting Gruyère with mozzarella creates a milder flavor, while sharp cheddar provides a rich, tangy taste.
- → How do breadcrumbs enhance the topping?
Panko breadcrumbs combined with melted butter create a crunchy, golden crust that contrasts the creamy macaroni beneath.
- → Is there a way to boost the flavor of the cheese sauce?
Adding smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper adds a subtle smoky or spicy note to deepen the sauce’s profile.
- → What is the recommended baking temperature and time?
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until the topping is golden and the sauce is bubbling.