The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food. It’s outrageously cheesy, ultra creamy, and topped with a crunchy Panko-Parmesan topping. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a crowd-pleasing dish. With a blend of three different cheeses and a rich homemade cheese sauce, this mac and cheese recipe will surely impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Cheesy: The combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyere creates an indulgent flavor that you can’t resist.
• Creamy Texture: The blend of heavy cream and milk gives the sauce its rich, velvety consistency.
• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious dish ready to bake in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this classic comfort food that’s perfect for any meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or proteins for a unique twist on this classic.

Tools and Preparation

To make the BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large baking dish
• Deep saucepan or Dutch oven
• Whisk
• Large mixing bowl
• Cooking pot for pasta

Importance of Each Tool

• Large baking dish: Ensures even cooking and makes serving easier.
• Deep saucepan or Dutch oven: Ideal for creating the creamy cheese sauce without spilling over.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth cheese sauce by preventing lumps from forming.

Ingredients

To make the BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese, gather these 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 shredded cheeses in a large bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta one minute shy of al dente according to the package instructions. Remove from heat, drain, and place in a large bowl.

Step 3: Add Olive Oil to Pasta

Drizzle the cooked pasta with olive oil. Stir to coat evenly. Set aside to cool while preparing the cheese sauce.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

Melt butter in a deep saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Whisk in flour until bubbly and golden, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth; continue whisking until bubbles form on the surface.

Step 5: Incorporate Seasonings

Whisk in salt and pepper to taste. Add two cups of shredded cheese, whisking until smooth. Then add another two cups of shredded cheese, continuing to whisk until creamy and thick.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Stir in the cooled pasta until fully coated with the cheese sauce.

Step 7: Layer in Baking Dish

Pour half of the mac and cheese into the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining two cups of shredded cheese followed by the remaining mac and cheese.

Step 8: Prepare Topping

In a small bowl, combine panko crumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture over the top.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in preheated oven until bubbly and golden brown, about 30 minutes. Serve immediately for best flavor!

How to Serve The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Serving The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to make your dish shine.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Basil or Chives: Add finely chopped basil or chives for a refreshing herbal note.

Pair with Proteins

• Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside juicy grilled chicken breast for a complete meal.
• Sautéed Vegetables: Pair with a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added nutrition.

Add Crunchy Toppings

• Fried Onions: Top with crispy fried onions for an extra crunch.
• Crushed Chips: Use crushed tortilla or potato chips for a fun twist on texture.

Accompany with Salads

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the creaminess perfectly.
• Coleslaw: Serve with coleslaw for a tangy contrast to the rich mac and cheese.

How to Perfect The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

To achieve perfection in making The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese, follow these handy tips:

• Use Fresh Cheese: Always use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties for better melting.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente; it will absorb some cheese sauce while baking.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheese combinations, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for unique flavors.
• Let It Rest: Allow the mac and cheese to rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps it set up nicely.

Best Side Dishes for The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Pairing side dishes with The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad adds crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the mac and cheese.
2. Roasted Broccoli: Roasted broccoli brings out natural sweetness while providing a healthy green option.
3. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover cheese sauce on your plate.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a tender yet crunchy side that complements creamy dishes well.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is deliciously seasonal and adds an enjoyable bite alongside your meal.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a delightful contrast in flavor and texture, making them an excellent pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese requires attention to detail. Here are common mistakes to avoid for perfect results every time.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long leads to mushy mac and cheese. Always cook it one minute shy of al dente so it maintains some bite after baking.
• Skipping the cheese sauce: Some may try to skip making a cheese sauce, but this is crucial for creaminess. Take the time to whisk together your milk, cream, and cheeses for that rich flavor.
• Not seasoning enough: Bland mac and cheese is a common pitfall. Season your cheese sauce well with salt and pepper for a balanced taste.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheeses can ruin your dish. Use good quality sharp cheddar and Gruyere for optimal flavor and meltability.
• Ignoring the topping: A crunchy topping adds texture that complements the creamy mac and cheese. Don’t skip on panko crumbs mixed with butter and Parmesan!
• Not allowing it to rest: Cutting into your mac and cheese immediately can lead to a soupy mess. Let it sit for a few minutes after baking for better serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese can last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream as needed, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese.

Can I use different types of cheese in The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for different flavors.

How do I make my mac and cheese extra creamy?

To achieve extra creaminess, ensure you use both heavy whipping cream and whole milk in your sauce.

What’s the best way to add protein to The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese?

Consider adding cooked chicken or turkey pieces mixed into your mac before baking for a protein boost.

Can I make The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it up to the baking step, store it in the fridge, then bake when ready to serve.

How long does The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese last in the fridge?

It will last 3-5 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is not just delicious; it’s versatile too! You can customize it by adding vegetables or proteins according to your taste. With its incredible cheesy flavor and satisfying texture, this recipe will surely become a family favorite. Give it a try!