Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy)
Indulge in our Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy), the ultimate comfort food that brings joy to every dining table. This richly flavored dish features a velvety cheese sauce made from a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, ensuring each bite is gooey and satisfying. Topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs, this mac and cheese balances creamy textures with a delightful crunch. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in, this recipe is easy to follow and uses simple ingredients, making it an excellent choice for cooks of all skill levels. Elevate your dining experience with this hearty baked pasta dish that promises to please both kids and adults alike.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually stir in the milk, cooking until thickened (about 5 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Remove from heat and mix in 2 cups each of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until smooth.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until well coated.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared dish, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, followed by panko breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown. Allow cooling slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 50mg