If comfort food had a champion, it would be this Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe. Imagine gooey, cheesy, golden-baked macaroni that fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that instantly lifts your spirits. This classic dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a nostalgic trip to the times when simple ingredients came together to create magic in every bite. The blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses layered over perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, baked to a bubbly, crispy-topped perfection, is what makes this recipe a timeless favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating this delicious dish, and luckily, these are all pantry staples that bring essential flavors and textures. Each one plays an important role in making the cheese sauce creamy, the pasta tender, and the topping satisfyingly crisp.
- 1 lb elbow macaroni: The quintessential pasta shape that holds every bit of cheesy goodness perfectly.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Offers a sharp, rich flavor and that beautiful classic mac and cheese color.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds a stretchy, melty texture that makes every forkful irresistible.
- 1/4 cup butter: Creates a silky base for the cheese sauce and enhances the overall richness.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Essential for making the roux, which thickens the sauce to creamy perfection.
- 2 cups milk: Gives the sauce a smooth, luscious consistency without overpowering the cheese flavors.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, aromatic depth without overwhelming the delicate cheese taste.
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder: A small kick that brightens and balances the cheesy richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple but essential seasoning that enhances every ingredient.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional): Provides a crunchy, golden-brown topping for added texture that’s pure comfort.
How to Make Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This creates the perfect foundation for your baked mac and cheese to cook evenly and release easily after baking. While the oven warms up, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until it’s just tender. Drain the pasta well to avoid any excess moisture that could thin your sauce later, then set it aside—everything’s about to come together quickly.
Step 2: Make a Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt your butter and whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking it for just about a minute. This step is key to thickening your sauce later while keeping it silky smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk, taking care to blend out any lumps, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. It’s here that you’ll add the garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper, infusing the sauce with those subtle flavors that make the cheese pop.
Step 3: Melt in the Cheeses
Once your sauce has thickened slightly, it’s time to introduce the cheeses. Stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella until they melt completely and the sauce is creamy and smooth. This moment is pure magic because you’re creating the heart of the Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe—a sauce so luscious it hugs every macaroni piece perfectly.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Mix the cooked macaroni into your luscious cheese sauce, ensuring every noodle is coated beautifully. Pour this cheesy mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. If you love a crunchy finish, sprinkle the optional breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is gloriously golden and bubbling, signaling that moment when cheese, pasta, and crust unite in perfect harmony.
How to Serve Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Sometimes, the simplest garnishes make all the difference. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top right after baking to add a fresh color contrast and a mild herbal note. A light dusting of smoked paprika can also add a subtle warmth and an inviting smoky aroma that complements the rich cheese beautifully.
Side Dishes
Because this dish is so rich and satisfying, it pairs exceptionally well with crisp, refreshing sides. A simple green salad with a citrusy vinaigrette, roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or broccoli, or a tangy coleslaw provide perfect balance. These sides bring texture and brightness to round out your meal effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests or make a weeknight dinner feel special? Serve this mac and cheese in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets. You could also try layering in cooked bacon bits or caramelized onions between the mac and cheese layers for added flavor twists. Presentation makes this Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe feel like a celebration every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked mac and cheese is a gift that keeps on giving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. To prevent it from drying out, cover it tightly or add a small splash of milk before reheating.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare it ahead for busy days. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with foil and a plastic wrap layer, or seal in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing its creamy texture or flavor.
Reheating
For the best reheating results, warm your leftover baked mac and cheese in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can add a bit of milk on top and cover with foil to help keep it moist. Reheating on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk also brings back that fresh-from-the-oven creaminess beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can swap in shells, penne, or cavatappi—anything that holds sauce well will work beautifully in the Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe.
What happens if I don’t have mustard powder?
Mustard powder adds a subtle tang that brightens the cheese sauce, but if you don’t have it, you can skip it or substitute with a tiny bit of Dijon mustard for a slightly different flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to make the roux, and ensure your breadcrumbs are gluten-free or omit them for a naturally gluten-free baked topping.
Can I add other cheeses to this recipe?
Definitely! Mix in gouda, gruyere, or Monterey Jack to customize the flavor. Just keep the total cheese amount about the same to maintain the creamy texture.
How do I get a super crispy topping?
To maximize crunch, toss your breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling them on top. You can also broil the mac and cheese for the last 2-3 minutes under careful watch for a golden, crispy crust.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly nothing like a homemade dish that brings comfort and joy to the table, and this Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe does just that with every luscious bite. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving a cozy night in, I hope you give this recipe a whirl—it’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug in food form. Happy baking and even happier eating!
Print
Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese recipe features creamy, cheesy pasta baked to golden perfection. Combining sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses in a rich, flavorful sauce with hints of garlic and mustard powder, it’s a comforting crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping (Optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Make Roux: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux, which helps thicken the sauce.
- Add Milk and Seasonings: Slowly whisk in the milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Stir in garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper to infuse flavor into the base sauce.
- Melt Cheese: Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella to the sauce. Stir continuously until all the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce thoroughly, then pour everything into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly.
- Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top if using, then bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly, providing a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
Notes
- For a crispier topping, you can mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter before sprinkling.
- Use whole milk or 2% milk for a richer sauce. Avoid skim milk to maintain creaminess.
- Feel free to add extras like cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or steamed vegetables to customize your mac and cheese.
- The dish can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
