Quick Description
This cheesy baked mac and cheese is a comforting, indulgent dish with a perfect balance of creamy cheese sauce and a crispy golden top. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines the best of both worlds—smooth and rich inside with a beautifully crisp, cheesy crust.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 6–8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Total Time: ~45 minutes
Ingredients List
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta of choice)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional, like parsley or chives)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil water in a large pot. Add salt and cook the macaroni according to package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour to form a smooth roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Stir in cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and mustard powder. Cook until smooth and thickened, about 4–5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated.
4. Bake the Mac and Cheese
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture into a greased baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
5. Serve
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of green salad or garlic bread
- Pair with grilled chicken or steamed vegetables
- Top with a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven until bubbly.
Tips & Variations
- Extra Cheesy: Add more shredded cheese (like mozzarella or gouda) for a richer flavor.
- Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or chili flakes to the sauce.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and vegan cheese.
- Crunchy Topping: Add crushed cornflakes to the breadcrumb topping for extra texture.
