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BEST HOMEMADE BAKED MAC AND CHEESE vibrant golden crust served in rustic white dish with glass of water
Yesica Andrews

BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese: Easy & Irresistible

This BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy cheese sauce with a crispy breadcrumb topping. Easy Mac And Cheese Casserole Baked to golden perfection makes it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Enjoy this Delicious Mac And Cheese that melts in your mouth with every bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz elbow macaroni
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt ¼ cup unsalted butter over medium heat.
  4. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, cooking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. Season the cheese sauce with salt and ground black pepper.
  8. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix well.
  9. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish.
  10. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter.
  11. Sprinkle 1 cup cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the macaroni.
  12. Top with the buttery panko breadcrumbs mixture.
  13. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  14. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add cooked bacon or a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.