Homemade Baked Mac & Cheese
Classic comfort, elevated: Homemade Baked Mac & Cheese that’s guaranteed to satisfy!
This isn’t your average boxed mac. We’re talking about rich, creamy cheese sauce made with real ingredients, perfectly al dente noodles, and a golden brown, crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s the ultimate comfort food perfect for a cozy night in, a family gathering, or a potluck side dish.
Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Made from scratch: You’ll control the quality and flavor of every ingredient.
- Creamy & cheesy: The sauce is rich, decadent, and oh-so-satisfying.
- Crispy topping: Adds a delightful textural contrast and a touch of golden brown goodness.
Ready to ditch the box and experience the magic of homemade? Continue reading for the recipe below and get ready to bake up a batch of cheesy goodness!
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni, cooked (or other tubular pasta)
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup all purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 2 cups Gruyere cheese shredded
- 1 cup smoked gouda cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese shredded
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder
- salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices bacon, cooked & chopped
- 1 1/2 cups panko crumbs
- 4 tbsp butter melted
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a large 3-quart or 4-quart baking dish. Combine all shredded cheeses in a bowl; reserve 1/2 cup for topping.
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Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions, stopping one minute before al dente. Drain pasta and place in a large bowl.
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Coat Pasta: Drizzle pasta with olive oil and toss to coat. Set aside to cool.
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Make Cheese Sauce:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute until bubbly and golden.
- Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth.
- Continue whisking until bubbles appear on the surface, then cook for 2 minutes more.
- Add seasonings including the salt and pepper. Mix well.
- Add cheese in two batches, whisking until smooth after each addition.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Stir cooled pasta into the cheese sauce until fully coated.
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Pour into Baking Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
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Make Crumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine panko crumbs, 1/2 cup reserved cheese, melted butter, bacon, and paprika.
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Bake and Serve: Sprinkle crumb topping over the casserole. Bake until bubbly and golden brown (about 30 minutes). Serve immediately.
Keywords: Dinner, Main Dish, Mac & Cheese, Macaroni, Cheese, Pasta, Side Dish