The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese:

16 oz (450g) elbow macaroni

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

3 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons melted butter

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.

Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form.

Cook the sauce until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.

Season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until evenly coated.

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 4: Add the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan, and parsley.

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for the BEST Mac and Cheese

Cheese Choices: Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor. Sharp cheddar adds tang, Gruyère brings creaminess, and Parmesan adds depth.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook it al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.

Make It Ahead: Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake before serving.

Add-Ins: Customize with cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or diced jalapeños for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for balance.

Serve as a main dish or a side for holiday meals, barbecues, or weeknight dinners.

Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Conclusion

This homemade baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious. With its golden, crispy topping and rich, velvety sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy nights in, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Try it once, and you’ll never go back to the boxed version!