If you’ve ever craved the ultimate comfort food, look no further than this classic Mac and Cheese recipe. Rich, creamy, and topped with a golden crunchy crust, this dish wraps tender elbow macaroni in a luscious blanket of sharp cheddar cheese sauce that warms your soul with every bite. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a hearty side, this Mac and Cheese is guaranteed to bring smiles to the table and become a family favorite in no time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a key role in building the perfect balance of creaminess, cheesiness, and crunch that defines an unforgettable Mac and Cheese.

8 oz elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that holds onto the cheese sauce beautifully.
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Provides a robust and tangy depth of flavor critical to this dish.
2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess that makes the sauce silky smooth and rich.
4 tbsp unsalted butter: Essential for creating the roux base and adding a buttery richness.
2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings perfectly to the pasta.
1 cup panko bread crumbs: Gives a delightful crispy topping that contrasts with the creamy interior.

How to Make Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a lively boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7 to 8 minutes. It’s important not to overcook here because the pasta will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the macaroni and set it aside so it’s ready to soak up that cheesy sauce.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it starts to bubble gently. Whisk in the all-purpose flour until the mixture is smooth and forms a paste. Cook this for about one minute to get rid of the raw flour taste, which will keep your Mac and Cheese silky and smooth instead of grainy.

Step 3: Add the Milk

Slowly pour the whole milk into the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. This step transforms your base into a creamy cheese sauce that envelops every macaroni perfectly.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it melts completely, turning the sauce a tempting golden color. The sharp cheddar infuses the sauce with a tangy punch that is the heart of any truly great Mac and Cheese.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until every piece is generously coated. This is where pasta and sauce become one, promising every bite is bursting with creamy, cheesy goodness.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle the panko bread crumbs evenly on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until the topping turns a beautiful golden brown. This crunchy layer adds just the right texture contrast that makes Mac and Cheese so irresistible.

How to Serve Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

Adding garnishes can elevate your Mac and Cheese from comforting to gourmet. Try chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to introduce subtle warmth and smoky depth. Crispy bacon bits or sliced green onions also bring exciting layers of flavor and texture.

Side Dishes

Mac and Cheese pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while roasted vegetables add a hearty, nutritious balance. For a classic combo, serve it alongside BBQ ribs or grilled chicken to make a meal that satisfies every craving.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t shy away from fun presentations! Serve Mac and Cheese in individual ramekins for charming personal portions or turn it into stuffed bell peppers for a colorful twist. For party-ready bites, bake it in mini muffin tins and top with breadcrumbs for Mac and Cheese cups that are finger-licking good.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover Mac and Cheese to room temperature, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making the next day’s meal just as satisfying.

Freezing

To freeze, transfer cooled Mac and Cheese to an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead meal that you can pull out on busy nights or whenever the craving hits.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy again, thaw frozen Mac and Cheese in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. To keep it creamy, add a splash of milk before reheating and cover with foil to prevent the top from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese for Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or gruyere to create different flavor profiles. Just be mindful that some cheeses melt better than others.

What’s the best pasta for Mac and Cheese?

Elbow macaroni is traditional because its hollow shape traps the sauce, but you can also use shells, cavatappi, or penne. The key is choosing a pasta that holds onto the cheese sauce well.

How can I make my Mac and Cheese extra creamy?

Use whole milk or even cream for a richer sauce, and avoid overcooking the pasta. A slow whisk when adding milk helps develop a smooth, velvety texture, too.

Can I make Mac and Cheese without baking it?

Yes! You can serve it stovetop style for a creamy, quicker version. The baking step mainly adds the crispy topping and firms up the dish slightly.

How do I get a crunchy topping without breadcrumbs?

If you’re out of breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or seasoned cornflakes work wonderfully to add that satisfying crunch on top of your baked Mac and Cheese.

Final Thoughts

This Mac and Cheese is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that everyone needs now and then. From the melty cheese sauce to the crisp topping, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself making time and time again. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients, and treat yourself to this comforting classic — you won’t regret it!

Mac and Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 9 reviews

Author: Sarah
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This classic Mac and Cheese recipe features perfectly cooked elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce, topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish ideal for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

8 oz elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 cups whole milk
4 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour

Topping

1 cup panko bread crumbs

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside to prepare the cheese sauce.
Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it becomes bubbly. Whisk in the all-purpose flour until the mixture is smooth and cook for approximately 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Add Milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked and drained macaroni into the cheese sauce. Stir well to ensure each piece of pasta is thoroughly coated with the cheesy sauce.
Bake: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the panko bread crumbs over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.

Notes

For a sharper cheese flavor, you can substitute half of the cheddar with aged white cheddar or a combination of cheddar and Gruyère.
Whole milk is recommended for a creamy sauce, but you can use 2% milk for a lighter version.
Make sure to continuously whisk when adding milk to prevent lumps in the sauce.
If you prefer a creamier mac and cheese, you can add a splash of heavy cream or increase the cheese quantity slightly.
The panko breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch but can be omitted for a softer surface.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Boiling, Baking
Cuisine: American