The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is a delightful dish that everyone will love. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a crunchy Panko-Parmesan mixture, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any special occasion. The combination of three different cheeses elevates the flavor to new heights, ensuring that every bite is filled with gooey goodness. Get ready to impress your guests with this comforting classic!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Outrageously Cheesy: The blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyere makes each forkful irresistibly cheesy.
• Ultra Creamy Texture: A homemade cheese sauce ensures a silky smooth consistency that clings perfectly to the pasta.
• Crunchy Topping: The Panko-Parmesan topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mac and cheese.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for both beginner and experienced cooks.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or side dish, it complements various meals and occasions.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Deep saucepan or Dutch oven
• Whisk
• Baking dish (3 qt or 4 qt)
• Mixing bowl

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta until al dente without overcrowding.
• Deep saucepan or Dutch oven: Ideal for creating your rich cheese sauce; the depth prevents splatters.
• Whisk: Ensures your cheese sauce is lump-free and perfectly blended.
• Baking dish: A good size will allow for even baking and golden-brown crust formation.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 16 oz elbow macaroni, cooked (or other tubular pasta)
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

For the Cheese Sauce

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup all purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping

• 1 1/2 cups panko crumbs
• 4 tbsp butter, melted
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika(or regular paprika)

How to Make The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350F. Lightly grease a large 3 qt or 4 qt baking dish and set aside. Combine the shredded cheeses in a large bowl and set them aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta one minute shy of al dente according to package instructions. Remove from heat, drain, and place it in a large bowl.

Step 3: Prepare Pasta

Drizzle pasta with olive oil and stir to coat evenly. Set aside to cool while preparing the cheese sauce.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

Melt butter in a deep saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
1. Whisk in flour for about 1 minute until bubbly and golden.
2. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth.
3. Continue whisking until bubbles appear on the surface; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Add two cups of shredded cheese into the mixture and whisk until smooth. Follow up by adding another two cups of shredded cheese, continuing to whisk until creamy. The sauce should be thick.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Stir in the cooled pasta until fully coated with the cheese sauce.

Step 7: Layer in Baking Dish

Pour half of the mac and cheese into your prepared baking dish. Top with remaining two cups of shredded cheese before adding the rest of the mac and cheese.

Step 8: Prepare Topping

In a small bowl, combine panko crumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in preheated oven until bubbly and golden brown, about 30 minutes. Serve immediately for best results!

How to Serve The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Serving the BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese can elevate any meal. Here are some creative ways to present this creamy, cheesy delight that will leave your guests wanting more.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the mac and cheese.

Add Grilled Chicken

• Sliced grilled chicken on top of the mac and cheese adds protein and complements the flavors beautifully.

Serve with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables like broccoli or carrots provide a colorful and healthy contrast to the dish.

Enjoy with Garlic Bread

• Crunchy garlic bread makes for a delightful side that’s perfect for dipping into the cheesy goodness.

Top with Crispy Onions

• Adding crispy fried onions on top gives an extra crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy texture.

Include Pickles or Relish

• A side of pickles or relish adds tanginess, cutting through the richness of the cheese sauce.

How to Perfect The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Perfecting your homemade mac and cheese takes a little know-how. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Use High-Quality Cheese: Opt for freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged. It melts better and enhances flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook pasta until just under al dente. It’ll continue cooking in the oven without becoming mushy.
• Season Generously: Don’t forget to season your cheese sauce well. A good amount of salt and pepper really brings out the flavors.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, mixing in cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella can add depth.
• Keep it Creamy: If your sauce seems too thick before adding pasta, a splash of milk can help achieve that desired creamy consistency.
• Bake Until Golden Brown: Ensure you bake until the top is bubbly and golden for that perfect crunchy topping everyone loves.

Best Side Dishes for The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Pairing side dishes with your mac and cheese can enhance your meal experience. Consider these delicious options for a complete dinner.

1. Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with lemon juice provides a fresh taste that complements cheesy dishes.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, balancing out the creaminess of mac and cheese perfectly.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds a savory element that pairs wonderfully with cheesy pasta.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a classic summer side that brings sweetness to each bite.
5. Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with garlic offer a nutty flavor that works well alongside rich mac and cheese.
6. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans are hearty and provide a comforting contrast to creamy macaroni.
7. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a burst of sweetness that cleanses the palate after rich flavors.
8. Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy fried green tomatoes add Southern charm and crunch, making them an exciting addition to any plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for to ensure your dish is perfect.

• Using the wrong pasta: Not all pasta works well in mac and cheese. Stick to elbow macaroni or similar tubular shapes that hold sauce effectively.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta beyond al dente can lead to mushy mac and cheese. Aim for one minute shy of al dente for the best texture.
• Skipping the cheese sauce: Some may try to use only shredded cheese without making a sauce. A homemade cheese sauce creates the creamy texture that defines great mac and cheese.
• Not seasoning properly: Failing to season your cheese sauce can result in bland flavors. Use salt and pepper generously to enhance the taste.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into mac and cheese immediately after baking can cause it to fall apart. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving for better structure.

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese in an airtight container.
• item It will last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

• item Cool completely before freezing.
• item Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
• item It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or cream to a saucepan over low heat. Stir frequently until heated throughout for creamy results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese so special?

The combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheeses creates an outrageously cheesy flavor, while the Panko-Parmesan topping provides a satisfying crunch.

Can I customize The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli or spinach, or mix in proteins such as cooked chicken or turkey for added nutrition.

How do I make The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese gluten-free?

Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and ensure your pasta is gluten-free as well.

What should I serve with The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken for a complete meal.

Conclusion

The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is not just a side dish; it’s the star of any dinner table. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and customizable options, this recipe will surely become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to try it out with different cheeses or mix-ins!

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