Comfort Food Baked Mac And Cheese

Name: Comfort Food Baked Mac And Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 cups whole milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley

Highlighted under: Classic Cooking

I absolutely adore comfort food, and this baked mac and cheese recipe has become a beloved staple in my kitchen. The creamy cheese sauce envelops the pasta perfectly, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and satisfying. I love how simple it is to prepare, and it's always a hit at gatherings. Whether I’m enjoying it on a cozy night in or serving it to friends, there's something heartwarming about a scoop of cheesy goodness that brings smiles all around.

Created by

Miranda Keats

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:55:35.433Z

In my quest for the ultimate mac and cheese, I experimented with various cheeses and spices, and one day, I stumbled upon the perfect blend! The combination of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella adds incredible depth, while a dash of nutmeg brings an unexpected warmth. I was thrilled to find that adding a crispy breadcrumb topping elevates the dish, creating a delightful contrast in textures.

Every time I make this baked mac and cheese, I can’t resist skipping the sauce tasting step—it's simply irresistible! I recommend using freshly grated cheese for a smoother melt and a richer flavor. My friends can’t get enough, and it never fails to remind me of cozy family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy cheese sauce that hugs every noodle
A crispy breadcrumb topping for added texture
Perfectly customizable with your favorite cheeses

Mastering the Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce is the heart of this baked mac and cheese, and mastering it is essential for achieving that creamy texture. Start by ensuring you melt the butter over medium heat, as high heat can cause the roux to burn, resulting in a bitter taste. Once you combine the flour to form a roux, cook it for just about a minute until it forms a paste and smells slightly nutty. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce later.

When adding the milk, do it gradually while whisking constantly. This technique helps prevent lumps from forming. As you whisk, keep an eye on the mixture. It should thicken enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon, which usually takes 5-7 minutes. If you find your sauce is too thick, simply whisk in a bit more milk until you achieve that velvety consistency.

Breadcrumb Topping Tips

The breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mac and cheese. To achieve the perfect texture, use fresh breadcrumbs if possible, as they absorb less moisture than dried ones, helping to maintain crunchiness. Mixing them with melted butter and parsley not only boosts flavor but also encourages even browning during baking. You can also experiment with adding grated Parmesan or spices to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra flavor kick.

When you sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the mac and cheese, don't just dump them in one spot. Instead, try to distribute them evenly across the surface. This ensures that every bite gets that satisfying crunch. Baking for 25-30 minutes will not only brown the topping but will also help the flavors meld together beautifully. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning; you want it golden brown, not too dark.

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to form a roux, cooking for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring until the mixture thickens. Add the garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper, then stir in the cheddar and mozzarella until melted.

Combine and Prepare for Baking

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing well. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and parsley, then sprinkle over the top of the mac and cheese.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding cooked bacon or diced tomatoes into the cheese mixture before baking for added flavor and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

While sharp cheddar and mozzarella are wonderful choices, feel free to mix in other cheese varieties you enjoy. For example, gouda or fontina can enhance the creaminess, while pepper jack will give a spicy kick. Just remember, whatever cheese you choose, aim for a combination that melts well to achieve that desired gooey texture.

If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute whole milk with low-fat milk or use unsweetened almond milk as a dairy-free alternative. Keep in mind that this might slightly alter the creaminess, so be prepared to adjust the flour slightly if your sauce isn’t thickening as desired.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This baked mac and cheese recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. Simply prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to serve, remove the plastic wrap and bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to heat it through completely.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in smaller portions, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating, but baking will retain that beautiful crispy topping.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze baked mac and cheese?

Absolutely! Freeze it before baking, and when you're ready, bake it straight from the freezer, adding a little extra time.

→ What cheeses can I substitute?

Feel free to mix and match different cheeses. Gruyère, fontina, or even pepper jack can add delicious flavors.