Pin A nostalgic, creamy baked macaroni and cheese with a golden crunchy topping just like grandma used to make This viral favorite delivers perfectly gooey pasta and rich cheese flavor in every bite
This recipe always brings back fond memories of family dinners and is a guaranteed crowd pleaser
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) elbow macaroni
- Cheese Sauce: 4 tbsp (55 g) unsalted butter 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour 3 cups (720 ml) whole milk 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream 2 cups (200 g) sharp cheddar cheese shredded 1 cup (100 g) Gruyère cheese shredded 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp black pepper 1/2 tsp dry mustard powder (optional) 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Topping: 1 cup (100 g) sharp cheddar cheese shredded 1/2 cup (50 g) panko breadcrumbs 1 tbsp (14 g) unsalted butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) Grease a 23x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish
- Cook macaroni:
- Cook macaroni in salted boiling water for 1 minute less than package directions Drain and set aside
- Melt butter and flour:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat melt 4 tbsp butter Whisk in flour and cook stirring for 1 2 minutes until lightly golden
- Add milk and cream:
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream Cook whisking constantly until thickened and just beginning to bubble about 5 minutes
- Add cheeses and seasoning:
- Remove from heat Stir in cheddar and Gruyère cheeses until smooth Add salt pepper mustard powder and paprika
- Combine macaroni and cheese sauce:
- Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated
- Assemble casserole:
- Pour half of the macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish Top with half the reserved cheddar Add remaining macaroni then sprinkle with remaining cheddar
- Add topping:
- Mix panko with melted butter Sprinkle evenly over the top
- Bake:
- Bake for 25 30 minutes until bubbly and golden Let rest 10 minutes before serving
Pin This dish always brings family together around the table with smiles and full plates
Notes
Pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables
Required Tools
Large pot Saucepan Whisk Baking dish (23x33 cm/9x13-inch) Cheese grater
Allergen Information
Contains Milk Wheat (gluten) possibly mustard Double-check cheese and panko labels if concerned about specific allergens
Pin This classic mac & cheese is comfort food at its finest and perfect any time of year
Recipe Q&A
- → What cheeses create the best flavor balance?
Sharp cheddar provides tangy depth while Gruyère adds nutty richness. Mixing these cheeses delivers a smooth, full-bodied taste.
- → Can I substitute the pasta used here?
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but small pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi also hold cheese sauce well and work beautifully.
- → How do I achieve a crispy topping?
Combining panko breadcrumbs with melted butter before sprinkling on top results in a golden, crunchy crust during baking.
- → What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently in the oven at 160°C (325°F), covered with foil to retain moisture, until warmed through without drying out.
- → Are there ways to add a twist to the base flavors?
Incorporate spices like smoked paprika or dry mustard powder for subtle complexity, or stir in cooked bacon for a savory upgrade.
- → How important is resting time after baking?
Allowing the dish to rest 10 minutes lets the sauce thicken and flavors meld, ensuring perfect texture and taste.