Classic Creamy Mac and Cheese Bake

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🧀 Classic Creamy Mac and Cheese Bake

Serves: 6–8

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

Total Time: ~50 minutes

🧂 Ingredients

For the pasta:

  • 1 lb (450 g) elbow macaroni (or cavatappi, shells, or penne)
  • Salt, for the pasta water

For the cheese sauce:

  • 4 tbsp (½ stick) unsalted butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika (optional)
  • ½ tsp mustard powder (optional, adds depth)
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella, shredded

For the topping:

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded (optional, for extra golden top)

🔥 Instructions

1. Cook the pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook pasta 1–2 minutes less than package directions (it will cook more in the oven).
  3. Drain and toss lightly with a drizzle of butter or oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

2. Make the roux

  1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly (don’t let it brown).
  3. Slowly whisk in the warm milk and cream, a little at a time, until smooth.
  4. Continue whisking until thickened, about 5–7 minutes.

3. Add the cheese

  1. Remove from heat and stir in salt, pepper, paprika, and mustard powder.
  2. Add the cheddar and Gruyère (or other cheese), stirring until melted and smooth.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning.

4. Combine pasta and sauce

  • Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated and creamy.

5. Prepare the topping

  1. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter (and extra cheese, if using).

6. Assemble and bake

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Pour the mac and cheese into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Sprinkle evenly with the breadcrumb topping.
  4. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

7. Serve

  • Let rest 5 minutes before serving for the creamiest texture.

💡 Tips & Variations

  • For extra creamy sauce, stir in 4 oz cream cheese or ½ cup evaporated milk before baking.
  • Add-ins: crispy bacon, caramelized onions, or lobster for a gourmet twist.
  • Make ahead: Assemble up to 1 day ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving (add 10–15 minutes to bake time).
  • To freeze: Cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze up to 2 months. Reheat covered at 350°F until warmed through.

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