Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy)
If you’re craving a dish that embodies warmth and comfort, look no further than this Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy). Imagine creamy elbow macaroni enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce, capped with a crispy panko topping that adds the perfect crunch. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also an easy, fulfilling meal ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s a guaranteed hit that will quickly become your favorite go-to recipe.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook until lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened; season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and pour into a baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar and panko breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg