Thereโs something irresistibly comforting about a dish of Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese. Itโs the perfect combination of creamy cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and a golden, crispy topping. Whether youโre feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night at home, this dish has a way of bringing people together and making any meal feel extra special.
In this guide, Iโll walk you through how to make a classic macaroni and cheese thatโs rich, creamy, and topped with a satisfying crunch. Plus, Iโll share some helpful tips to ensure your mac and cheese comes out perfect every time, along with a few twists to elevate the flavors. Ready to dig in? Letโs get started!
What Is Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese?
Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a beloved dish made by combining pasta with a creamy cheese sauce, then baking it to golden perfection. Itโs the ultimate comfort food thatโs both hearty and satisfying. Often served as a side dish or main course, macaroni and cheese has earned a spot at nearly every holiday dinner, family gathering, or cozy night in.
What makes it truly special is the balance of texturesโthe smooth, velvety cheese sauce combined with the slightly chewy pasta and the crispy, golden crust on top. This combination of creamy and crunchy is what makes baked mac and cheese stand out from the stovetop version, which tends to be a bit more soupy.
Ingredients for Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Hereโs everything youโll need to make this comforting dish:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 ยฝ cups shredded Gruyรจre or Monterey Jack cheese (for added flavor and meltiness)
- 3 cups whole milk (preferably whole milk for richness)
- 1 tablespoon butter (plus extra for greasing)
- 2 tablespoons flour (for the roux)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds a subtle tangy depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for a hint of savory flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (for the topping, use panko for extra crunch)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (to toss with the breadcrumbs for a golden finish)
Step-by-Step Guide
How to Make Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese
- Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling your macaroni in salted water according to the package directions, but cook it just slightly under al dente (it will continue cooking in the oven). Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons flour to form a roux. Continue whisking for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Slowly add 3 cups milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and season generously with salt and pepper. Lower the heat, then gradually add the shredded cheddar and Gruyรจre cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat each piece of pasta in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preference.
- Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of olive oil. Toss until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. This will give them a golden, crunchy texture when baked.
- Assemble and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Grease a 9ร13-inch baking dish with butter and pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the dish. Top with the breadcrumb mixture, spreading it evenly over the top. Bake, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy:
Let the mac and cheese sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese sauce to thicken and makes it easier to scoop out portions. Serve hot and enjoy!
Why I Love This Dish:
Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese is my ultimate go-to comfort food because itโs the perfect balance of creamy and crispy. The rich cheese sauce melts beautifully over the pasta, creating a dish thatโs both indulgent and satisfying. Itโs a crowd-pleaser that never fails to make everyone feel at home.
Expert Quote:
โMacaroni and cheese is a dish thatโs been loved for generations, and when done right, itโs pure magic. The key is in making a smooth, velvety cheese sauce and baking it to perfection with a crunchy topping. The beauty of mac and cheese is that itโs simple, yet every bite feels like a warm hug.โ
โ Chef Alex Rodriguez, Culinary Expert and Founder of The Comfort Kitchen
Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese Variations
1. Add Bacon:
For those who love a smoky touch, crisp up some bacon and sprinkle it over the mac and cheese before baking. The bacon adds a salty, savory contrast to the creamy cheese sauce.
2. Try Different Cheeses:
While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, you can get creative with your cheese selection. Try adding some fontina for extra creaminess or Parmesan for a nutty, salty kick.
3. Spice It Up:
If you like a little heat, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or paprika into the cheese sauce, or top with jalapeรฑos for a spicy variation that brings an unexpected twist to the dish.
4. Make It Veggie-Friendly:
Add a layer of roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or spinach for a healthier, more vibrant dish. These veggies pair wonderfully with the cheesy pasta and can be mixed directly into the casserole or served on the side.
5. Gluten-Free Option:
For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free pasta and replace the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. The rest of the recipe remains the same!
Helpful Tips for the Perfect Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese
- Use Good-Quality Cheese:
The better the cheese, the better the mac and cheese. Donโt skimp on qualityโopt for freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded, as it melts better and creates a smoother sauce. - Donโt Overcook the Pasta:
Remember, the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so undercook it slightly when boiling to avoid mushy noodles in the final dish. - Get Creative with Toppings:
While breadcrumbs are classic, you can mix in crushed potato chips, panko breadcrumbs, or even crispy fried onions for a different crunch. - Let It Rest:
After baking, let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to slice without the cheese sauce running all over the place. - For Extra Creaminess, Add a Little Cream Cheese:
For a richer, creamier texture, try adding a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese to the cheese sauce mixture. It adds a smooth, luscious consistency.
People Also Ask: FAQs About Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Yes! You can assemble the dish a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bake it the day youโre ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure itโs heated through.
Yes, macaroni and cheese freezes well. To freeze, simply allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as usual.
Yes! You can substitute whole milk with low-fat milk or almond milk and reduce the cheese for a lighter version. You can also try using Greek yogurt in place of some of the cheese to keep the texture creamy while cutting down on fat.
Equipment
- ๐ฅ Large pot
- ๐ฅฃ Large mixing bowl
- ๐ง Cheese grater
- ๐ฅ Measuring cups
- ๐ฅ 9ร13 baking dish
Ingredients
- ๐ 1 pound elbow macaroni
- ๐ง 1/2 cup butter
- ๐พ 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- ๐ฅ 4 cups whole milk
- ๐ง 4 cups shredded cheese blend
- ๐ง 1 teaspoon salt
- ๐ถ๏ธ 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- ๐ 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ๐ฟ 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- Cheese Blend:
- ๐ง 2 cups sharp cheddar
- ๐ง 1 cup gruyรจre
- ๐ง 1 cup monterey jack
Instructions
- Cook macaroni al dente
- Make cheese sauce:
- โ Melt butter
- โ Add flour, make roux
- โ Slowly add milk
- โ Whisk until thick
- Add cheese, seasonings
- Mix with pasta
- Transfer to baking dish
- Top with breadcrumbs
- Bake at 375ยฐF for 25-30 minutes
Notes
๐ Donโt overcook pasta
๐ Use whole milk for creaminess
๐ Let rest 10 minutes before serving Storage Tips:
โ๏ธ Refrigerate: 4-5 days
โ Reheat in oven
๐ฅ Add splash of milk when reheating Pro Tips:
๐ Use room temp ingredients
๐ Whisk continuously
๐ Layer cheese for depth Variations:
๐ฅ Add crispy bacon
๐ถ๏ธ Jalapeรฑo version
๐ฅฆ Mix in broccoli
๐ Add pulled pork Common Questions:
โ Can freeze? Yes, before baking
โ Gluten-free? Use GF flour, breadcrumbs Perfect For:
๐ฝ๏ธ Family dinners
๐ Holiday sides
๐จโ๐ฉโ๐ง Potlucks Serving Suggestions:
๐ฅ Green salad
๐ Roasted chicken
๐ฅฆ Steamed vegetables
Nutrition
Chefโs Tip:
Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese is all about getting the fundamentals right. The key to a great mac and cheese is a perfectly balanced cheese sauceโsmooth, creamy, and just the right consistency to coat the pasta. When you bake it, make sure the top is golden and crunchy, but the insides stay luscious and creamy. Trust me, when you get this just right, itโs the perfect comfort food, and youโll want to make it again and again.
