Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Topping (Print Version)

Creamy baked mac and cheese featuring a rich blend of cheeses and a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping. A comforting classic for any meal.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian

# Ingredients:

→ The Golden Foundation

01 - 1 pound elbow macaroni

→ The Velvety Cheese Sauce

02 - 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
03 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
04 - 3 cups whole milk, warmed
05 - 1 cup heavy cream, warmed
06 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
08 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ The Irresistible Cheese Medley

10 - 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
11 - 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
12 - 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

→ The Crispy Crown

13 - 1 1/2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
14 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 1 pound elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. This initial step is crucial for the Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe.
02 - In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/2 cup all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms.
03 - Gradually whisk in 3 cups warmed whole milk and 1 cup warmed heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
04 - Remove the pot from heat. Add 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese, and 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese to the sauce. Stir until all the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This cheese medley makes the Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe truly irresistible.
05 - Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat evenly. In a small bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups Panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter for the crispy crown.
06 - Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the buttered Panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
07 - For the best Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly, ensuring perfect, creamy portions.

# Notes:

01 - For an even richer flavor, try substituting some of the sharp cheddar with smoked gouda or fontina cheese.
02 - This mac and cheese can be assembled a day ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then bake for an extra 10-15 minutes until heated through.
03 - Serve this comforting dish alongside grilled chicken, a simple green salad, or as a stand-alone meal.
04 - For an extra crispy topping, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

# Tools You'll Need:

01 - Large pot
02 - 9x13 inch baking dish
03 - Large saucepan
04 - Whisk
05 - Cheese grater
06 - Measuring cups
07 - Measuring spoons

# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 894 kcal
Total Fat: 57 g
Total Carbohydrate: 61 g
Protein: 34 g

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