Description
Craving the ultimate comfort food? This Baked Mac and Cheese with Sauce delivers rich, creamy flavor in every bite. Made with a velvety cheese sauce and a perfectly baked golden top, it's the go-to dish for anyone looking for a cozy dinner idea, quick family-friendly meal, or a crowd-pleasing side for gatherings. Whether you're after an easy dinner recipe, satisfying food ideas, or a classic yet indulgent dish, this baked mac and cheese is your answer. Customize it, store it, and reheat it—this easy recipe fits right into your life.
Ingredients
1 lb elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
0.25 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
0.5 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
3 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
1.5 cups mozzarella cheese freshly grated
1 cup cheddar cheese for topping
0.25 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook 1–2 minutes less than package directions (al dente). Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to make a roux.
3. Slowly whisk in warm milk and cream. Cook while stirring for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
4. Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Lower the heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella, one handful at a time, until melted and smooth.
6. Add drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Pour into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
8. Sprinkle with remaining cheddar, Parmesan if using, and buttered breadcrumbs if desired.
9. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and golden. Broil for 2–3 minutes for extra crisp top.
10. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow sauce to set.
Notes
Always grate cheese fresh for a smoother, creamier sauce—pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well.
Undercook your pasta slightly before baking to avoid mushy texture.
Let the dish rest before serving so the sauce thickens for easier scooping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (~1/8 of dish)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: baked mac and cheese, easy dinner, comfort food, cheesy pasta, creamy mac and cheese