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Mac and Cheese Recipe

This homemade mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden breadcrumb crust. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights at home.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
optional 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk warmed
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon salt plus more for pasta water
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder optional
  • ½ teaspoon mustard powder optional, enhances cheese flavor
  • 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella or Gruyère cheese shredded
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons butter melted
  • Optional Mix-Ins:
  • ½ cup cooked bacon bits
  • 1 cup sautéed spinach or broccoli florets
  • A few dashes of hot sauce for extra zing

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente (about 1 minute less than package directions). Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the roux: In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it forms a smooth paste.
  3. Build the sauce: Slowly whisk in the warm milk and cream, about ½ cup at a time, to prevent lumps. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  4. Season and add cheese: Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder. Remove from heat and gradually add cheddar, mozzarella (or Gruyère), and Parmesan. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  5. Combine with pasta: Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and mix until well coated.
  6. Prepare topping: In a small bowl, toss panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter until evenly coated.
  7. Assemble and bake: Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumb topping evenly over the top. Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. The sauce will set slightly, making it even creamier.