Description
Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a comforting American dish featuring tender elbow macaroni layered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Baked until bubbly and topped with a golden, buttery breadcrumb crust, this recipe is perfect as a main course or a hearty side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Make Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a smooth roux, which helps thicken the sauce.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and smooth.
- Season and Combine: Add salt, black pepper, and paprika to the cheese sauce, then mix in the cooked macaroni until every piece is well coated.
- Assemble: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese for a crispy crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the baked macaroni and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a few tablespoons of cream cheese to the sauce or incorporate cooked bacon pieces for a smoky flavor.
- A cheese blend of Gruyère and cheddar can be used for a deeper, nuttier taste.
