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BAKED MAC AND CHEESE RECIPE hero close up golden crust melted cheeses comfort
Thomas Baker

Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe Magic Comfort at Heart

This baked mac and cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food, delivering a thick mac and cheese recipe with a creamy, cheesy homemade sauce that's irresistible. Perfect as an easy mac and cheese recipe with cream cheese style richness, it combines gooey melted cheese with a crunchy, golden topping. Whether you're seeking a cheese homemade mac and cheese or a satisfying mac and cheese homemade recipe, this dish promises warmth and flavor in every bite.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Add salt, pepper, and paprika.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and pour into the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and panko breadcrumbs.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • For extra creaminess, you can add 4 oz of cream cheese to the sauce before combining with the pasta. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.