The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is a dish that will redefine your comfort food experience. This recipe features an outrageously cheesy and ultra-creamy sauce, topped with a crunchy Panko-Parmesan crust. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or just a cozy night in, this mac and cheese will surely impress your guests. With three types of cheese and a homemade sauce, it’s the ultimate mac and cheese you’ll want to make time and time again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Cheesy – The combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyere creates a rich, flavorful base that’s simply irresistible.
• Creamy Texture – The blend of heavy cream and milk ensures each bite is velvety smooth.
• Crispy Topping – A golden Panko-Parmesan topping adds a delightful crunch to contrast with the creamy filling.
• Versatile Dish – Whether it’s a side or main course, this mac and cheese fits any occasion perfectly.
• Kid-Friendly – Kids love the cheesy goodness, making it a go-to dish for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

To create The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese, having the right tools makes the process easier and more efficient. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Deep saucepan or Dutch oven
• Whisk
• Baking dish (3 qt or 4 qt)
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Pot – Ideal for cooking pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Deep Saucepan or Dutch Oven – Perfect for making the cheese sauce; its depth helps prevent splattering.
• Whisk – Ensures your cheese sauce becomes smooth by breaking up clumps as you mix.
• Baking Dish – A good-quality dish helps with even baking and browning of your mac and cheese.

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Ingredients

To make The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pasta

• 16 oz elbow macaroni, cooked (or other tubular pasta)
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

For the Cheese Sauce

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded
• salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping

• 1 1/2 cups panko crumbs
• 4 tbsp butter, melted
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)

How to Make The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a large 3 qt or 4 qt baking dish and set it aside. Combine all shredded cheeses in a large bowl and set aside for later use.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta one minute shy of al dente according to package instructions. Once done, remove from heat, drain well, and transfer to a large bowl.

Step 3: Prepare the Pasta

Drizzle olive oil over the cooked pasta. Stir gently to coat each piece evenly. Allow it to cool while you prepare the cheese sauce.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

Melt butter in a deep saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Whisk in flour continuously for about 1 minute until bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Add Milk and Cream

Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth. Continue whisking until bubbles appear on the surface. Cook for an additional 2 minutes while whisking constantly.

Step 6: Incorporate Cheeses

Whisk in salt and pepper to taste. Add two cups of shredded cheese at first, whisk until smooth before adding another two cups. Continue whisking until you achieve a thick, creamy consistency.

Step 7: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Fold in the cooled pasta gently until fully coated with the delicious cheese sauce.

Step 8: Layer in Baking Dish

Pour half of the macaroni mix into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining two cups of shredded cheese on top followed by layering with the rest of mac and cheese mixture.

Step 9: Prepare Topping

In a small bowl, mix together panko crumbs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and paprika. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the top layer of mac and cheese.

Step 10: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Serve immediately for best flavor!

How to Serve The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Serving The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is a delightful experience. This creamy, cheesy dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Greens

• Garden Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed in a tangy vinaigrette.
• Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds a nice texture contrast and zesty flavor to the rich mac and cheese.

Add Protein Options

• Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken breasts seasoned with herbs pair wonderfully with baked mac and cheese.
• Roasted Turkey Breast: Sliced turkey adds a hearty protein option that complements the creamy pasta.

Top it Off

• Chopped Herbs: Fresh parsley or chives sprinkled on top of the mac and cheese adds color and flavor.
• Hot Sauce: A few dashes of hot sauce can enhance the dish’s richness with a spicy kick.

How to Perfect The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Achieving perfection with The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Use High-Quality Cheese: Choose sharp cheddar and Gruyere for deep flavor. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged options.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook the pasta just shy of al dente. It will continue cooking in the oven, preventing mushiness.
• Whisk Continuously: When making the cheese sauce, whisk continuously to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth consistency.
• Layer Your Cheese: For extra cheesiness, layer cheese between the pasta layers before baking. This creates a gooey texture throughout.
• Broil for Extra Crispiness: For a crunchy topping, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking but watch closely to prevent burning.

Best Side Dishes for The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Complementing The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese with suitable side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great ideas to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into cheesy goodness.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing the richness of the mac and cheese.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts offer a delicious earthy flavor that pairs beautifully.
4. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings crunch from croutons and creaminess from dressing, enhancing your meal’s overall experience.
5. Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast to the savory mac and cheese.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob adds seasonal freshness that complements this comforting dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect baked mac and cheese can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese often lacks flavor and melts poorly. Always opt for high-quality, freshly shredded cheese for the best results.
• Not cooking pasta properly: Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the final dish. Cook your pasta just shy of al dente for perfect texture.
• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season your cheese sauce can make your dish bland. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
• Not layering cheese: If you only add cheese on top, you miss out on creamy goodness throughout. Layer cheese within the pasta mixture for a richer taste.
• Using too much liquid: Adding excessive milk or cream can make your sauce runny. Follow the recipe measurements closely for the right consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover with foil and bake until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat with a splash of milk to regain creaminess, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about this recipe, here are some frequently asked questions that may help!

What makes The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese unique?

The combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheeses creates a rich flavor profile that’s hard to beat. The Panko-Parmesan topping adds a delightful crunch.

Can I customize The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli or spinach, or even mix in proteins such as chicken or turkey for added nutrition.

How long does it take to make The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese?

The total time is about 60 minutes, including preparation and baking time.

Is it possible to make this recipe without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with additional milk or a plant-based alternative if desired.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or mix-ins based on your preference. It’s sure to be a hit at any dinner table!