Homemade Baked Mac & Cheese: The Ultimate Food

There’s nothing quite like a warm, gooey dish of Homemade Baked Mac & Cheese to satisfy your craving for comfort food. This creamy baked mac and cheese recipe is rich, cheesy, and topped with golden, buttery breadcrumbs for the perfect crunch. Whether you’re making it as a side dish or the main event, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or any special occasion.

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this mac and cheese oven recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious classic!

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Ingredients Overview

Here’s a detailed list of ingredients you’ll need to make this Homemade Baked Mac & Cheese:

Elbow Macaroni (1 pound or 450g)
Unsalted Butter (6 tablespoons, divided)
All-Purpose Flour (¼ cup)
Milk (3 cups, whole milk preferred)
Heavy Cream (1 cup)
Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded)
Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded)
Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated)
Cream Cheese (½ cup, softened)
Salt (1 teaspoon)
Black Pepper (½ teaspoon)
Paprika (½ teaspoon, optional)
Breadcrumbs (1 cup, for topping)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To prepare this recipe, you’ll need the following tools:

Large pot for boiling pasta
Large saucepan for making the cheese sauce
Whisk or wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking dish (9×13 inch)
Medium mixing bowl
Aluminum foil

Step-by-Step Preparation

Follow these steps to make a creamy, gooey baked mac and cheese:

Cook the Macaroni:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
Add the Cheese:
Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cream cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese sauce is creamy and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using).
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce.
Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Prepare the Topping:
In a medium bowl, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and mix with the breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the mac and cheese uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Cool and Serve:
Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness!

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Tips for Creamy Mac and Cheese

Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of the sauce. Grate your cheese fresh for the best results.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Mix Cheese Varieties: Combining different types of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, etc.) adds layers of flavor and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the Roux: The roux (butter and flour mixture) helps thicken the sauce. Don’t skip this step, as it ensures a creamy texture.
Overbaking: Keep an eye on the oven to avoid drying out the mac and cheese. Bake until just golden and bubbly.
Undersalting: Season both the pasta water and the cheese sauce to bring out the best flavors in the dish.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Classic Presentation: Serve the baked mac and cheese in the baking dish for a rustic, family-style presentation.
Individual Portions: Divide the mac and cheese into ramekins for individual servings with a fancy touch.
Toppings: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Recipe Variations and Customizations

Six Cheese Mac and Cheese: Use a blend of six different cheeses for a rich, indulgent dish. Try adding Gouda, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack.
Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Bacon Mac and Cheese: Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon for extra flavor and texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. Add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Pairing Ideas for a Perfect Meal

Salad: Serve with a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
Grilled Chicken: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.

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FAQ Section

Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or shells for this recipe.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the mac and cheese ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the breadcrumbs just before baking.

Enjoy Your Homemade Baked Mac & Cheese

This Homemade Baked Mac & Cheese is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and crispy goodness. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or as a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. If you loved this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more delicious and comforting dishes!