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Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

A comforting dish featuring gooey cheese, tender pasta, and a crunchy topping, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the pasta
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • Water for boiling for cooking pasta
  • Salt for pasta water
For the cheese sauce
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional topping
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente (about 1 minute less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.
Making the Cheese Sauce
  1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden and bubbling.
  2. Slowly pour in the milk and cream while whisking. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens slightly, about 4–6 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic powder, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
Combining and Baking
  1. Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat all the pasta.
  2. Pour the cheesy pasta into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
  3. For the optional topping, mix panko with melted butter and smoked paprika. Sprinkle over the top of the pasta.
  4. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden on top. For a crispier topping, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
  5. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving for best texture.

Notes

For an extra creamy texture, use a combination of cheeses such as gouda or fontina. Add cooked bacon or chopped vegetables for added flavor and nutrition. Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Bake just before serving for convenience.