Ultimate Creamy Oven-Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Herb Topping

There are few dishes in the world that deliver pure comfort quite like a rich, creamy, oven-baked mac and cheese. With its bubbling golden surface, velvety cheese sauce, and perfectly tender pasta, this timeless classic never goes out of style. Whether served at family dinners, holiday gatherings, or cozy weekend meals, mac and cheese has a way of bringing warmth and satisfaction to the table.

This version takes the traditional favorite to the next level. The inside is luxuriously smooth and creamy, made with a blend of cheeses that melt beautifully into a silky sauce. On top, a crisp layer of seasoned breadcrumbs adds texture and flavor, creating the perfect contrast to the creamy base. The hint of herbs sprinkled across the golden crust enhances both aroma and taste, making every bite rich yet balanced.

Simple ingredients come together to create something extraordinary — a dish that feels nostalgic yet gourmet at the same time. Once you try this homemade oven-baked mac and cheese, it may just become your signature comfort recipe.

📝 Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 500 g elbow macaroni

• 5 g salt (for boiling water)

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For the Cheese Sauce:

• 70 g unsalted butter

• 70 g all-purpose flour

• 1 L whole milk (warm)

• 300 g sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)

• 200 g mozzarella cheese (shredded)

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• 100 g parmesan cheese (grated)

• 3 g black pepper

• 2 g paprika

• 2 g garlic powder

For the Crispy Topping:

• 80 g breadcrumbs

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• 30 g melted butter

• 2 g dried parsley

• 1 g dried thyme

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside. Do not overcook, as the pasta will continue baking in the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once fully melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to create a smooth roux. This step removes the raw flour taste and forms the base of the sauce.

Gradually pour in the warm milk while whisking constantly. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce (about 5–7 minutes).

Reduce the heat and add the cheddar, mozzarella, and half of the parmesan cheese. Stir gently until all the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes silky. Season with black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Stir thoroughly to ensure every piece of pasta is coated in the rich, creamy mixture.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 180°C.

Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese on top.

Step 5: Prepare the Crispy Herb Topping

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter, dried parsley, and thyme. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and crispy. For a deeper golden crust, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes while watching carefully to prevent burning.

Allow the dish to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to help the sauce set slightly.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a hearty main dish with a fresh green salad

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• Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables

• Add crispy bacon bits for extra indulgence

• Sprinkle fresh chopped herbs before serving for brightness

🌟 Conclusion

Ultimate Creamy Oven-Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Herb Topping is the perfect combination of rich, velvety cheese sauce and crunchy golden crust. The contrast between the creamy interior and crisp topping makes each bite deeply satisfying.

This recipe transforms a simple comfort dish into something truly special — warm, indulgent, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this baked mac and cheese guarantees smiles at the table and empty plates every time. 🧀✨