Indulge in the creamy, cheesy delight of homemade baked mac and cheese. This comforting dish is a classic favorite, perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors, crispy topping, and gooey interior, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main dish, this recipe will satisfy your cravings for something warm and delicious.
Ingredients
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 teaspoon mustard powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 350 calories, 15g protein, 18g fat, 32g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form.
6. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
7. Remove from heat, then stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted.
8. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing well.
9. Transfer the mac and cheese into a baking dish.
10. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil, then sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option. Additionally, feel free to use different cheese blends like gouda or pepper jack for varied flavors.
Serving and Pairings
This baked mac and cheese pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, grilled chicken, or steamed vegetables. For added flair, serve with a side of garlic bread.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be slightly underdone.
– Don’t rush the roux; cook it until bubbly for best results.
– Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce.
– Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even baking.
– Don’t skip the breadcrumb topping; it adds essential crunch.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
– Add cooked bacon or ham for a protein boost.
– Incorporate vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
– For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or jalapeños to the cheese sauce.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add about 10 extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What cheese works best for mac and cheese?
A combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella gives a great balance of flavor and creaminess, but feel free to use your favorites.
Can I add meat to my mac and cheese?
Absolutely! Cooked bacon, ham, or even ground beef can be mixed in for a heartier dish.
How do I make my mac and cheese creamy?
Ensure you use a good amount of cheese and don’t skimp on the milk. Adding cream can also enhance the creaminess.
What can I serve with baked mac and cheese?
It pairs well with salads, grilled meats, or even as a side for barbecued dishes.
Conclusion
Homemade baked mac and cheese is a classic dish that never goes out of style. With its creamy texture and satisfying flavors, it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Enjoy this comforting meal that’s sure to bring smiles to the table!

Homemade Baked Mac And Cheese
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form.
- Continue cooking until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat, then stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing well.
- Transfer the mac and cheese into a baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil, then sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.