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Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

This creamy, cheesy baked mac and cheese features a crisp breadcrumb topping and rich blends of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan for the ultimate comfort food experience.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 3 tbsp butter (for roux) used in making the roux
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour used for thickening the sauce
  • 2 cups milk whole milk for creaminess
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese offers a tangy flavor
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese provides stretchiness
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese adds savory depth
  • 1 tsp mustard (optional) for additional flavor
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs for the crunchy topping
  • 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping) to mix with Panko

Method
 

Preheat and Prepare
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
Cook the Macaroni
  1. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente (slightly firm).
Make the Roux
  1. Melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add 3 tbsp flour and stir for 1 minute.
Add Milk and Thicken
  1. Gradually whisk in 2 cups milk. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats a spoon (about 4–6 minutes).
Melt in Cheeses Off Heat
  1. Remove the pan from heat. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until smooth.
Season and Combine
  1. Stir in mustard (optional), salt, and pepper. Fold cooked macaroni into the sauce until evenly coated.
Transfer to Baking Dish
  1. Pour the mixture into the greased dish and spread evenly.
Prepare and Add Topping
  1. Mix Panko with 2 tbsp melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the pasta.
Bake and Rest
  1. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden and edges bubble. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a hands-off alternative, try a crockpot version of mac and cheese. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, reheating in the oven.