Baked Mac and Cheese : Classic Creamy Comfort
This ultimate comfort food favorite is everything mac and cheese should be: ultra-creamy inside with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping. Simple, cheesy, and soul-warming, it’s a quick crowd-pleaser perfect for weeknights or family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
Ingredients
1 lb elbow macaroni
4 tbsp butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Breadcrumb Topping:
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp butter, melted
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Cook Pasta: Boil macaroni just until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Cook until thickened, then add salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir in cheeses until melted and smooth.
Combine: Stir pasta into the cheese sauce. Pour into a greased 9×13 baking dish.
Add Topping: Mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over pasta.
Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 17g