Table of Contents
- Why This Baked Mac and Cheese is a Must-Try
- The Secret to Ultra Creamy Mac and Cheese
- Best Cheese Combinations for Mac and Cheese
- How to Achieve the Perfect Golden Crust
- Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Serving Suggestions and Pairings
- Key Takeaways
Key Takeaways
• This baked mac and cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich, creamy, and cheesy experience.
• The combination of cheddar and mozzarella creates the perfect balance of meltiness and flavor.
• A crispy, golden panko and Parmesan topping adds the perfect crunch.
• This dish is ideal for family dinners, holidays, or meal prep.
• Easy to customize with different cheese blends and add-ins like bacon or caramelized onions.
Why This Baked Mac and Cheese is a Must-Try
At Clara Cooks, we believe that comfort food should be both indulgent and easy to prepare. This baked mac and cheese is a perfect example of that philosophy. With a rich, velvety cheese sauce enveloping tender pasta, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit at any table. Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, it delivers every time.
The Secret to Ultra Creamy Mac and Cheese
The key to achieving the ultimate creamy mac and cheese lies in the cheese sauce. A perfect balance of whole milk, heavy cream, and a carefully chosen cheese blend ensures a silky texture. Unlike stovetop versions, baked mac and cheese benefits from a gentle bake that allows the sauce to thicken and infuse every bite with flavor.
Best Cheese Combinations for Mac and Cheese
When it comes to making the best baked mac and cheese, the cheese selection is everything. While cheddar is the gold standard, adding mozzarella enhances the gooey texture, and Parmesan provides a sharp depth of flavor. Experimenting with Gruyère, smoked Gouda, or even Monterey Jack can take this dish to the next level.
How to Achieve the Perfect Golden Crust
The best part of any baked mac and cheese is the crispy, golden crust. The secret? A mixture of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Baking at the right temperature ensures an even crisp without drying out the pasta. For an extra crunchy finish, broil the dish for the last two minutes.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This creamy mac and cheese isn’t just delicious fresh out of the oven; it also makes great leftovers. Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of milk and warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through. Want to freeze it? Assemble the dish but hold off on baking until you’re ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
While this baked mac and cheese is a meal on its own, it pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. For a classic Southern twist, serve it alongside barbecue ribs or fried chicken. No matter how you enjoy it, this dish is guaranteed to be a family favorite.
Best Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe – Creamy & Cheesy
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until smooth.
- Stir in salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni and mix well.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
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