Baked Mac and Cheese: Golden, Creamy, and Always the First to Disappear

A Comfort Classic Done Right

Baked mac and cheese is the kind of dish that doesn’t need an introduction—it speaks for itself with every bite. Creamy, cheesy pasta nestled under a crisp, golden breadcrumb topping, baked to bubbly perfection. Whether it’s the main event or the star side on your plate, this version of mac and cheese is the one you’ll come back to again and again.

Why You’ll Love It

This Baked Mac and Cheese is made from scratch, using real ingredients and a simple roux-based cheese sauce that gives the dish its signature creaminess. The top gets a buttery, golden crust thanks to toasted breadcrumbs, while the inside stays rich, smooth, and perfectly seasoned. It’s comfort food at its finest—cozy, indulgent, and timeless.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta & Cheese Sauce:

1 lb elbow macaroni or cavatappi
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk, warmed
1 cup heavy cream
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon mustard powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack

For the Topping:

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional)
Chopped parsley for garnish

How to Make It

1. Boil the Pasta
Cook pasta just until al dente. Drain and set aside—don’t overcook, since it’ll bake later.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Slowly add milk and cream, whisking until smooth. Cook until thickened (about 5 minutes), then stir in garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Stir in the Cheese
Remove the sauce from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted and silky.

4. Combine & Transfer
Mix the sauce with the cooked pasta, then pour everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

5. Add the Topping
Combine panko, melted butter, and Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.

6. Bake to Perfection
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Ideas

Serve it as a side with BBQ, fried chicken, or roasted veggies
Make it the star of the table with add-ins like crispy bacon or caramelized onions
Great for holidays, potlucks, weeknights—or anytime comfort calls

Final Thoughts

This Baked Mac and Cheese is all about texture and flavor: creamy pasta inside, crispy topping outside, and cheesy goodness throughout. It’s a dish that feels like home and tastes like a warm hug. Whether served at a family dinner or scooped onto your plate during the holidays, it never fails to deliver.