Baked mac and cheese is one of those classic comfort foods that has won hearts across the globe. Combining the creamy richness of a smooth cheese sauce with the satisfying bite of tender macaroni pasta, this dish brings warmth to the table. What sets this baked version apart is the crunchy panko breadcrumb topping, which adds an extra layer of texture to the cheesy goodness below. With just a few simple steps, anyone can create a homemade version that tastes gourmet.
This recipe uses a blend of cheeses—white cheddar and pepperjack—to achieve a flavorful balance of sharpness and creaminess. By incorporating ingredients like half & half and cream cheese, the sauce is silky and smooth. The addition of dijon mustard brings a subtle tang that elevates the dish, while the Italian seasoning offers a hint of herbs that ties everything together.
The beauty of mac and cheese is its versatility. Whether it’s served as a side at a barbecue or as the star of the meal on a chilly evening, this dish never disappoints. Learn more about the history of macaroni and cheese and its variations here.
Ingredients Breakdown :
Pasta :
The foundation of any good mac and cheese is the pasta. Traditionally, macaroni is used for its shape, which holds onto the cheese sauce beautifully. However, other pasta shapes like shells, penne, or rotini can work just as well, depending on your preference. The key is to cook the pasta al dente, which means firm to the bite. Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy final dish. For more on the different types of pasta, check out this guide.
Cheese Selection :
The type of cheese used in mac and cheese is crucial to achieving the desired flavor and texture. This recipe uses a blend of white cheddar cheese for its sharp, tangy flavor and pepperjack cheese for a slight kick. Cheddar is a classic choice, known for its melting properties and robust taste. For a richer and more complex flavor, you can mix in gruyere, gouda, or even mozzarella.
The cream cheese adds a layer of smoothness that helps create a velvety sauce, perfect for coating the pasta evenly. Whether you stick to cheddar or experiment with other cheeses, it’s important to grate the cheese fresh, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce.
Dairy Components :
The combination of half & half and evaporated milk (or heavy cream) makes for a perfectly creamy sauce without being too rich. The half & half lightens the sauce while still adding depth, and the evaporated milk enhances the texture, making it smoother and silkier. For those who prefer an extra-decadent version, substituting heavy cream for the evaporated milk can result in an even richer experience. Learn more about the uses of evaporated milk in cooking here.
Thickeners & Flavor Enhancers :
A roux made from butter and flour thickens the sauce perfectly. The addition of corn starch further stabilizes the mixture, while the dijon mustard introduces a slight tang that complements the richness. The blend of Italian seasoning adds an herbal touch to the savory profile. Learn about dijon mustard here.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions :
Preparing the Macaroni :
Cooking the macaroni pasta to the perfect texture is key to making the best mac and cheese. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt helps season the pasta from the inside out. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 8 to 10 minutes for al dente. Be sure not to overcook, as the pasta will continue to cook slightly during the baking process. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the cheese sauce. More tips on pasta cooking can be found here.
Making the Cheese Sauce :
The heart of any baked mac and cheese lies in its cheese sauce. Start by melting the butter over medium heat in a large skillet or pan. Once the butter has melted, stir in the flour, whisking continuously to form a roux. This roux acts as the thickener for the sauce. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the raw taste of the flour to cook out.
Gradually whisk in the half & half, pouring it slowly to avoid any lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce begins to thicken, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Meanwhile, dissolve the corn starch into the evaporated milk and add it to the skillet, whisking constantly. The cornstarch helps to further thicken the sauce and prevent it from breaking.
Now, it’s time to add the flavor enhancers: dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. These ingredients bring balance to the richness of the cheese. Stir everything until well combined. Next, add the cream cheese to the sauce, stirring until it has melted completely into the mixture.
Once the sauce base is ready, gradually stir in 1 ½ cups of the pepperjack cheese and 1 cup of cheddar cheese, saving the remaining cheddar for later. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. For more on cheese melting techniques, visit Cheddar Cheese Guide.
Combining Pasta with Sauce :
Once the cheese sauce is ready, stir in the cooked macaroni pasta, ensuring that every piece is well-coated. The creamy cheese will seep into the pasta’s ridges, creating a luxurious texture. Transfer the pasta and cheese mixture into your prepared casserole or baking dish for the next step. Visit Mac and Cheese Techniques for more inspiration.
Preparing the Topping :
The crunchy topping is what makes baked mac and cheese stand out. In a small pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the panko breadcrumbs and Italian seasoning. Toast the breadcrumbs until they turn a light golden-brown color, stirring frequently to avoid burning. This step adds a crisp texture to the top layer of the mac and cheese, creating the perfect contrast to the creamy pasta beneath. You can experiment with different toppings, like crushed crackers or even bacon bits, by exploring this Pinterest board.
Baking and Serving Baked Mac and Cheese :
Baking the Mac and Cheese :
Once the macaroni and cheese mixture is transferred to the baking dish, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. This adds an extra layer of gooey, melted cheese that’s perfect for creating those Instagram-worthy cheese pulls when serving. After the cheese, evenly distribute the panko breadcrumb topping over the surface.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes, or until the topping turns a golden-brown color and the cheese is bubbling. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-baking, as you want the cheese to remain creamy without drying out.
Once the mac and cheese is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This cooling step allows the cheese sauce to thicken slightly, making for cleaner, more cohesive servings. For more on baking techniques, visit this page.
The result is a dish with a creamy interior, complemented by a crunchy, flavorful topping. Learn how to elevate baked pasta dishes on this Pinterest board.
Variations and Add-ins :
Protein Add-ins :
One of the best things about baked mac and cheese is its adaptability. You can add proteins like cooked chicken, bacon, or ham to make it more filling. A popular choice is to mix in crispy bacon for an irresistible smoky flavor. If you want to elevate this dish even further, consider adding seafood like lobster or crab, which brings a gourmet twist to a classic comfort food.
For those who prefer a vegetarian version, feel free to omit the meats and instead explore other flavorful additions. For more ideas on protein add-ins, check out this Pinterest board focused on mac and cheese variations.
Vegetable Add-ins :
To make this dish a little healthier, try incorporating vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms. Broccoli adds a nice crunch, while spinach wilts beautifully into the cheese sauce, providing a subtle flavor without overwhelming the dish. Sautéed mushrooms add earthiness and an umami flavor that pairs well with the richness of the cheese. These additions not only bring in extra nutrients but also make the dish more colorful and visually appealing.
Spicy Twists :
If you’re a fan of heat, consider adding some spice to your baked mac and cheese. Incorporate diced jalapeños, a few dashes of hot sauce, or use spicy pepperjack cheese for an extra kick. These elements can turn a traditional mac and cheese into something bold and exciting.
Serving Suggestions :
Once your baked mac and cheese is out of the oven, it pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes and drinks. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the cheese, while roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts add texture and depth. For a more indulgent pairing, serve with garlic bread or cornbread to complete a comfort-food feast.
As for drinks, a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a refreshing pale ale works wonderfully with the cheesy richness. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water or iced tea can cleanse the palate.
Storage and Reheating Tips :
Baked mac and cheese is an excellent make-ahead dish, and it stores well for leftovers. Once cooled, store the mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to freeze it, make sure the dish is tightly covered with foil and plastic wrap. Frozen mac and cheese can last up to three months.
When reheating, avoid drying out the dish by adding a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture. To reheat in the oven, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave smaller portions, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
- Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! While macaroni is traditional, other short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells work just as well. These shapes also hold the cheese sauce nicely, adding variety to the texture. - What’s the best cheese for mac and cheese?
Cheddar is the most common cheese used for its flavor and melting properties, but you can experiment with others like gruyere, mozzarella, or gouda. Learn more about cheddar varieties here. - How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply substitute with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for the roux. For more on gluten-free options, check out this Pinterest board. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese, refrigerate it, and bake just before serving for convenience.
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Creamy Mac and Cheese
- Author: Alexander
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 12 oz macaroni pasta
- 3 tbsp butter 🧈
- 4 tbsp flour
- 2 cups half & half (or milk) 🥛
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk (or heavy cream) 🥫
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning blend 🌿
- Salt and pepper to taste (about ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp pepper) 🧂
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened 🧀
- 2 cups white or yellow cheddar cheese, divided 🧀
Toppings:
- ⅔ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning 🌿
- 2 tbsp butter 🧈
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a large casserole or baking dish. 🔥
2️⃣ Cook macaroni pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. 🍝
3️⃣ In a large pan or skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until a smooth sauce forms. 🥄
4️⃣ Dissolve the cornstarch into evaporated milk, then add this mixture to the pan. Whisk to combine. 🍶
5️⃣ Add dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, cream cheese, and 1 ½ cups of the cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. 🧀🔥
6️⃣ Stir the cooked noodles into the cheese sauce, then transfer everything to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. 🍝🧀
7️⃣ For the topping: In a pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add panko breadcrumbs and Italian seasoning, stirring over medium-high heat until the breadcrumbs are golden brown. 🌿🥄
8️⃣ Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs over the pasta. 🥖
9️⃣ Bake, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly. 🕒
🔟 Let it cool slightly before serving and enjoy! 😋
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 15 min