Pasta Bakes

Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Name: Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound (450g) macaroni; 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter; 1/2 cup (115g) all-purpose flour; 2 cups (475ml) milk; 2 cups (220g) grated sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup (115g) grated Gruyère cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 cup (115g) breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons (30g) grated Parmesan cheese

By Carol Bennett · June 18, 2026 · Pasta Bakes

Prep20 min

Cook25 min

Total45 min

Serves6

There's something special about a warm, comforting plate of baked macaroni and cheese that never fails to bring people together. As a home cook, I've spent years perfecting my recipe, and I'm excited to share it with you. My baked macaroni and cheese is a masterclass in texture and flavor, with a crispy, golden top giving way to a creamy, cheesy center.

I remember making this dish for my family on cold winter nights, watching as everyone gathered around the table, eager to dig in. It's a recipe that's both nostalgic and timeless, perfect for a cozy night in with loved ones. And the best part? It's incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment.

So, what makes my baked macaroni and cheese so special? For starters, I use a combination of sharp cheddar and creamy Gruyère cheese, which provides a rich, complex flavor profile. I also add a sprinkle of paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the dish a subtle kick. And, of course, no baked macaroni and cheese would be complete without a crispy, golden top – which I achieve by using a combination of breadcrumbs and grated cheese.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that's easy to make and fun to eat. Whether you're a busy parent looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a seasoned home cook seeking a new recipe to add to your repertoire, my baked macaroni and cheese is sure to become a favorite.

In this recipe, I'll walk you through every step of the process, from cooking the macaroni to assembling the cheesy topping. I'll also share some expert tips and tricks for getting the best results, including how to achieve a crispy, golden top and how to prevent the macaroni from becoming too dry or overcooked.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
It's a crowd-pleasing dish that's perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
The combination of sharp cheddar and creamy Gruyère cheese provides a rich, complex flavor profile.
The crispy, golden top adds a satisfying texture to the dish.
It's a comforting, nostalgic recipe that's sure to become a favorite.
You can make it ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great baked macaroni and cheese is balance – balance between the creamy cheese sauce and the al dente pasta, balance between the rich, comforting flavors and the crispy, golden top. To achieve this balance, I use a combination of sharp cheddar and creamy Gruyère cheese, which provides a rich, complex flavor profile.

I also add a sprinkle of paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the dish a subtle kick. And, of course, no baked macaroni and cheese would be complete without a crispy, golden top – which I achieve by using a combination of breadcrumbs and grated cheese.

The cooking process is also crucial, as it's easy to overcook the macaroni or burn the top. To avoid this, I cook the macaroni al dente, then combine it with the cheese sauce and transfer it to a baking dish. I top the macaroni with a layer of breadcrumbs and grated cheese, then bake it in the oven until the top is golden and the macaroni is heated through.

By following these steps and using the right combination of ingredients, you'll be able to create a baked macaroni and cheese that's both comforting and elegant – perfect for a cozy night in with family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including macaroni, cheese, and breadcrumbs. I recommend using high-quality ingredients, such as sharp cheddar and creamy Gruyère cheese, to get the best flavor.

When shopping for ingredients, be sure to check the expiration dates and choose the freshest options available. You'll also want to have some basic kitchen equipment on hand, such as a large pot and a baking dish.

1 pound (450g) macaroniI recommend using a high-quality macaroni that's made from durum wheat semolina. This type of macaroni holds its shape well and has a nice texture.
2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butterI use unsalted butter to avoid adding extra salt to the dish. You can also use salted butter if you prefer, just be sure to omit any additional salt called for in the recipe.
1/2 cup (115g) all-purpose flourI use all-purpose flour to thicken the cheese sauce. You can also use whole wheat flour or a combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour if you prefer.
2 cups (475ml) milkI recommend using whole milk for the best flavor and texture. You can also use 2% or skim milk if you prefer a lower-fat option.
2 cups (220g) grated sharp cheddar cheeseI use a combination of sharp cheddar and creamy Gruyère cheese for the best flavor. You can also use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, if you prefer.
1 cup (115g) grated Gruyère cheeseI use Gruyère cheese for its creamy, nutty flavor. You can also use other types of cheese, such as Emmental or Comté, if you prefer.
1/2 teaspoon saltI use salt to enhance the flavor of the dish. You can adjust the amount of salt to taste, but be sure to use a high-quality salt, such as kosher or sea salt.
1/4 teaspoon black pepperI use black pepper to add a subtle kick to the dish. You can adjust the amount of pepper to taste, but be sure to use freshly ground pepper for the best flavor.
1/4 teaspoon paprikaI use paprika to add a smoky, slightly sweet flavor to the dish. You can also use other types of paprika, such as smoked or sweet paprika, if you prefer.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepperI use cayenne pepper to add a subtle kick to the dish. You can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to taste, but be sure to use a high-quality cayenne pepper for the best flavor.
1 cup (115g) breadcrumbsI use breadcrumbs to add a crispy texture to the top of the dish. You can use plain breadcrumbs or seasoned breadcrumbs, depending on your preference.
2 tablespoons (30g) grated Parmesan cheeseI use Parmesan cheese to add a salty, nutty flavor to the dish. You can also use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, if you prefer.

Ingredients for Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Equipment You’ll Need

Large potColanderBaking dishCheese graterMeasuring cups and spoonsWhiskWooden spoon

How to Make Baked Macaroni and Cheese

1
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Drain the macaroni and set it aside.
3
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is lightly golden and has a nutty aroma.
4
Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens.
5
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the cheddar and Gruyère cheese until they're melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
6
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the macaroni is well coated with the cheese sauce.
7
Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top it with the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
8
Bake the macaroni and cheese in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
9
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
10
Serve the baked macaroni and cheese hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika if desired.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality ingredients, such as sharp cheddar and creamy Gruyère cheese, for the best flavor.
Don't overcook the macaroni, as it can become mushy and unappetizing.
Use a combination of breadcrumbs and grated cheese to add a crispy texture to the top of the dish.
Let the dish cool for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and the flavors to meld together.
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, to find your favorite combination.
Add some diced vegetables, such as bell peppers or broccoli, to the macaroni mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Use a variety of spices, such as paprika or cayenne pepper, to add depth and complexity to the dish.
Make the dish ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the macaroni, which can make it mushy and unappetizing.
Not using high-quality ingredients, which can result in a bland or unflavorful dish.
Not letting the dish cool before serving, which can cause the cheese to be too runny or the flavors to be unbalanced.
Not using enough cheese, which can result in a dry or flavorless dish.
Not using a combination of breadcrumbs and grated cheese to add a crispy texture to the top of the dish.
Not experimenting with different types of cheese or spices to find your favorite combination.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced ham or bacon to the macaroni mixture for added protein and flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, to find your favorite combination.
Add some diced vegetables, such as bell peppers or broccoli, to the macaroni mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Use a variety of spices, such as paprika or cayenne pepper, to add depth and complexity to the dish.
Make the dish ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use.
Use a combination of breadcrumbs and grated cheese to add a crispy texture to the top of the dish.
Let the dish cool for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and the flavors to meld together.

What to Serve With Baked Macaroni and Cheese

This baked macaroni and cheese is perfect for serving as a main course or side dish. You can serve it with a variety of sides, such as a green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

For a comforting and satisfying meal, try serving the macaroni and cheese with a side of crispy bacon or a fried egg. You can also add some diced ham or cooked sausage to the macaroni mixture for added protein and flavor.

Garlic breadGreen saladRoasted vegetablesCrispy baconFried eggGrilled chicken or steak

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This baked macaroni and cheese can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. To refrigerate, simply cool the dish to room temperature, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To freeze, cool the dish to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to serve, simply thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the oven until it's hot and bubbly.

To reheat the macaroni and cheese, preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until it's hot and bubbly. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.

You can also reheat the macaroni and cheese in the microwave. Simply cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, or until it's hot and bubbly. Be careful when removing the dish from the microwave as it may be hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. Simply cool the dish to room temperature, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can use different types of cheese in this recipe. Some good options include mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar. You can also experiment with different combinations of cheese to find your favorite.

Can I add vegetables to the macaroni mixture?

Yes, you can add diced vegetables, such as bell peppers or broccoli, to the macaroni mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I prevent the macaroni from becoming too dry or overcooked?

To prevent the macaroni from becoming too dry or overcooked, be sure to cook it al dente and not overmix the cheese sauce. You can also add a little bit of milk or cream to the cheese sauce to help keep it creamy and smooth.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Simply cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, then combine it with the cheese sauce and cook on low for 2-3 hours.

How do I reheat the macaroni and cheese?

Can I freeze the macaroni and cheese?

Yes, you can freeze the macaroni and cheese. Simply cool the dish to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to serve, simply thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the oven until it's hot and bubbly.

How do I prevent the top of the macaroni and cheese from becoming too brown?

To prevent the top of the macaroni and cheese from becoming too brown, you can cover it with aluminum foil for the first 20-25 minutes of baking. This will help the macaroni to heat through without the top becoming too brown.

The Full Recipe

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