Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese

Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese

Introduction

Nothing says comfort food quite like a bubbling, golden dish of Baked Mac and Cheese — rich, creamy, and loaded with gooey melted cheese. This version takes everything you love about the classic and turns it into the ultimate indulgence: tender macaroni coated in a velvety cheese sauce, topped with a layer of perfectly browned, stretchy, golden cheese. It’s the kind of dish that steals the spotlight at family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. Whether served as a main course or a decadent side, this mac and cheese is pure, soul-warming perfection.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni (450 g) or any short pasta of choice

• Salt, for boiling water

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (60 g)

• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour (30 g)

• 4 cups whole milk (960 mL)

• 1 cup heavy cream (240 mL)

• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (340 g)

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• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (115 g)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 g)

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

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• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese (115 g)

• ½ cup cheddar cheese (60 g)

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• Freshly cracked black pepper or parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until just al dente (slightly firm to the bite), about 1 minute less than package instructions.
   Drain and toss with a little butter to prevent sticking. Set aside.

2. Make the Roux (Base for Cheese Sauce)
   In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture becomes slightly golden and smells nutty.

3. Add Milk and Cream
   Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

4. Add the Cheese and Seasoning
   Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed — the sauce should be rich and flavorful.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
   Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently until all the pasta is evenly coated.

6. Assemble and Bake
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish and pour the cheesy macaroni mixture into it. Smooth out the top.
   Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar evenly over the top.

7. Bake to Golden Perfection
   Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbling, melted, and beautifully golden brown. For an extra crispy crust, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes — just keep a close eye on it!

8. Serve and Enjoy
   Let the mac and cheese rest for about 10 minutes before serving to set slightly. The top will be gloriously golden, and the inside irresistibly creamy.

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Conclusion

This Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese is everything a comfort dish should be — warm, creamy, and overflowing with melted cheese. The combination of rich sauce and gooey baked topping makes it an instant favorite for kids and adults alike. Serve it as a main dish or alongside roasted meats, vegetables, or holiday sides for an unforgettable meal. One forkful of this cheesy perfection, and you’ll understand why homemade always wins.