Comfort Food Baked Mac And Cheese

Name: Comfort Food Baked Mac And Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 cups milk; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon mustard powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Warm Recipes

Whenever I crave comfort food, my mind immediately goes to baked mac and cheese. There’s something incredibly satisfying about creamy pasta combined with gooey cheese, especially when it’s baked to perfection. In this recipe, I’ve combined a blend of cheeses that not only bring depth to the flavor but also create that wonderfully stretchy texture we all love. Plus, the golden, crispy topping takes it over the edge, making it a dish that’s perfect for chilly nights or gatherings with friends and family.

Created by

Rosalyn Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:01:36.812Z

In my quest for the ultimate comfort food, I stumbled upon a few key techniques that truly enhance the classic baked mac and cheese. The first was the importance of toasting the breadcrumbs for the topping. It adds an additional layer of flavor and a satisfying crunch. Another tip I discovered is to mix different types of cheese. I found that combining sharp cheddar with creamy mozzarella creates a delightful balance that makes every bite unforgettable.

During my testing phases, I played around with the level of creaminess by adjusting the ratios of milk to cheese. By doing so, I achieved a rich, luscious sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. Trust me; this method ensures that your baked mac and cheese remains creamy even after it has been baked!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, cheesy goodness that warms the soul
Perfectly baked topping adds a delightful crunch
Customizable with your favorite cheeses and add-ins

Crafting the Perfect Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce is the star of baked mac and cheese, and getting it right can make all the difference. Start by melting the butter over medium heat—this is crucial as too high a heat can cause the butter to burn, imparting a bitter flavor. Once melted, whisk in the flour until combined and bubbly, cooking it for about a minute to avoid a raw taste. Then, gradually whisk in the milk and cook until thickened; a good indication of readiness is when the sauce coats the back of a spoon.

When adding the cheeses, it's important to remove the pot from direct heat. This prevents the cheese from becoming grainy. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella until fully melted and the sauce is glossy and smooth. If you find your sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a splash of milk; conversely, if it's too thin, let it simmer a bit longer for a creamier consistency.

Tips for a Crunchy Topping

The breadcrumb topping adds an essential textural contrast that elevates your dish. To achieve the best crunch, consider toasting the breadcrumbs in a skillet with a bit of melted butter before sprinkling them over the mac and cheese. This step not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that your topping is golden and crispy after baking. Aim for breadcrumbs that are coarse; they create a sturdier texture than fine breadcrumbs.

If you want to get creative, add grated Parmesan to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra savory kick. Alternatively, mix in herbs or spices like paprika or Italian seasoning to give your topping more depth. Just make sure to monitor the baking closely, as toppings can brown quickly. Look for a golden color and a beautiful crispy texture to know it’s perfectly baked.

Storage and Reheating Suggestions

If you end up with leftovers, the baked mac and cheese stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you're looking to make it ahead of time, consider assembling the dish but not baking it. Cover the unbaked mac and cheese tightly with foil and store it in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the refrigerator but expect to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Reheating is simple, but to prevent drying out, consider adding a splash of milk before warming it in the oven or microwave. If using the oven, cover it with foil to lock in moisture; bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also give the topping a quick broil for a minute to regain some crunch. This way, you get to enjoy that comforting mac and cheese just as it was intended, even the next day.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious baked mac and cheese:

Main Ingredients

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon mustard powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs

You can adjust the ingredients as per your taste or dietary needs!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your baked mac and cheese:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture thickens. Add the garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella until melted.

Combine & Transfer

Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, making sure every piece is well-coated. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.

Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle this over the mac and cheese for a crunchy topping.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the dish for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

Once baked, allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, consider adding cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of cheese significantly impacts the flavor of your baked mac and cheese. Sharp cheddar brings a robust flavor and enhances the creaminess, while mozzarella adds elasticity, giving you that lovely stretch when you take a bite. If you're feeling adventurous, try incorporating Gruyère or Fontina for a gourmet twist. Just remember to maintain a balance of flavors; too many strong cheeses can overwhelm the dish.

Salt is another critical player in the cheese sauce. Be sure to taste your sauce as you go, especially after adding cheese, as it can add significant saltiness. If you find it lacking, a dash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the depth of flavor without making the dish too salty.

Variations to Consider

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing for plenty of variations to suit your preferences. For a lighter option, you can substitute half of the elbow macaroni with steamed cauliflower or choose whole-wheat pasta for added fiber. Adding cooked proteins such as chicken, bacon, or lobster can transform your mac and cheese into a heartier meal.

If you’re looking to spice things up, consider adding jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a kick. Alternatively, folding in some sautéed spinach or broccoli can increase the nutritional value while adding color and flavor. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability according to your dietary needs and cravings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute elbow macaroni with any short pasta, like penne or shell pasta.

→ What can I do with leftovers?

Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

→ How can I make it gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta and substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend when making the cheese sauce.