This Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and super comforting! Made with tender pasta and a rich cheese sauce, it’s a classic favorite for both kids and adults.
Honestly, who can resist a big bowl of this gooey goodness? I love adding crispy breadcrumbs on top for a tasty crunch! It’s just so easy to whip up for dinners or cozy nights in.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic pasta choice for mac and cheese. You could substitute with shells or any small pasta if you want a different bite!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is the go-to for its bold flavor. For an extra cheesy experience, mix in some mozzarella or Monterey Jack!
Gruyère Cheese: This adds a lovely creaminess. If you can’t find it, Swiss cheese works well too! You can even use only cheddar if you prefer a more familiar taste.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add a great crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can also work. Just make sure to season them a bit more!
How Do You Create a Smooth Cheese Sauce?
Getting that rich, creamy cheese sauce can be tricky, but it’s all about making a roux and adding milk slowly. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux.
- Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes until it’s light golden, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Now slowly add the milk in batches, whisking as you go. This prevents lumps and helps to thicken your sauce smoothly.
- Keep cooking and stirring on low until the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Add your seasonings before the cheese.
And that’s it! You’ll have a velvety cheese sauce that makes the perfect base for mac and cheese. Enjoy your cooking experience!
Classic Baked Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese (or more cheddar if preferred)
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard powder (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes for baking, totalling approximately 45 minutes from start to finish. A quick and delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to bake the mac and cheese once assembled.
2. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour and keep stirring for about 1-2 minutes to make your roux. It should turn a light golden color.
4. Add Milk and Thicken:
Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to avoid any lumps. Keep whisking as the mixture heats up and thickens for about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season the Sauce:
Lower the heat, then stir in the salt, black pepper, paprika, and mustard powder (if using). This adds great flavor!
6. Cheese Time:
Now, slowly add the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses to the sauce, stirring constantly until they melt and the sauce is smooth. Once everything is melted, remove the saucepan from the heat.
7. Combine with Pasta:
Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated in that creamy goodness.
8. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer your mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. If you’re using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top for a crunchy finish.
9. Bake:
Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point!
10. Enjoy:
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This classic dish is now ready to be enjoyed—creamy, cheesy, and oh so comforting!
Gather your loved ones, serve it up, and savor every bite of this delightful mac and cheese!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute it with any small pasta, such as shells, penne, or fusilli. Just ensure the cooking time is appropriate for the type you choose.
Can I Make This Mac and Cheese Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the roux. This way, you can enjoy a delicious mac and cheese without gluten!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk to help restore creaminess.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! You can mix in cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach, or add proteins such as cooked chicken, ham, or bacon for extra flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cheese sauce accordingly to maintain creaminess!
