Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this homemade mac and cheese because it’s a simple yet decadent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The sauce is made from scratch with a roux, which gives it that velvety texture, while sharp Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses add depth and richness to the flavor. The buttered bread crumb topping adds a delicious crunch, making every bite a perfect balance of creamy and crispy. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress anyone at the table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Macaroni and Cheese:

• 8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni

• ¼ cup salted butter

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 ½ cups milk (or more as needed)

• 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

• ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and ground black pepper to taste

Bread Crumb Topping:

• 2 tablespoons salted butter

• ½ cup dry bread crumbs

• 1 pinch ground paprika

Directions

1. I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing an 8-inch square baking dish.

2. I bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil, add the macaroni, and cook it for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite. I drain the pasta and transfer it to the prepared baking dish.

3. While the pasta is cooking, I melt ¼ cup of butter in a medium skillet over low heat. Then, I whisk in the flour and cook it for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture becomes paste-like and golden brown.

4. Gradually, I whisk in the 2 ½ cups of milk, bringing it to a simmer. Then, I stir in the Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses and season the sauce with salt and pepper. I cook and stir it over low heat for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. If it’s too thick, I add up to ½ cup more milk.

5. I pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni and stir until everything is well combined.

6. For the topping, I melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. I add the bread crumbs and cook them, stirring until they’re well coated and browned.

7. I spread the browned bread crumbs over the mac and cheese, sprinkle some paprika on top, and bake it in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the mac and cheese is bubbling.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 45 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: I can add cooked chicken, bacon, or even sausage to the mac and cheese for a more hearty meal.

• Use different cheeses: While Cheddar and Parmesan are classic choices, I could try Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for a different flavor profile.

• Spicy mac and cheese: To spice things up, I can add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.

• Vegetarian mac and cheese: I can make this dish vegetarian by skipping the bacon and using a plant-based butter or cheese.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When I’m ready to enjoy it again, I can reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or microwave individual servings for a quicker option. To prevent it from drying out, I can stir in a tablespoon or two of milk while reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare the mac and cheese up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When I’m ready, I can bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes of cooking time.

Can I freeze mac and cheese?

Yes, I can freeze the mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container for up to 6 months. To reheat, I would need to thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake it at 350°F until it’s heated through and bubbly.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Of course! While elbow macaroni is traditional, I can use other types of pasta like penne, shells, or even cavatappi for a fun twist on the classic.

Can I make this mac and cheese without the breadcrumb topping?

Yes, if I prefer a softer texture, I can skip the breadcrumb topping. The mac and cheese will still be delicious without it.

Can I add vegetables to this mac and cheese?

Definitely! I can stir in some cooked broccoli, spinach, or roasted tomatoes for a bit of extra flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Homemade mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, and this recipe hits all the right notes. From the creamy, cheesy sauce to the golden breadcrumb topping, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether I’m enjoying it as a main course or serving it as a side, this mac and cheese always brings a smile to my face and satisfies my cravings.

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