Looking for a creamy, comforting dish? This homemade mac and cheese recipe with a crispy bread crumb topping is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. The rich cheese sauce made from scratch guarantees a decadent, flavorful experience that’s far better than anything from a box.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Servings: 4
Why This Mac and Cheese Recipe is a Must-Try
This easy homemade mac and cheese recipe uses simple ingredients like cheddar and Parmesan, creating a creamy sauce that clings to every noodle. Skip store-bought versions—this mac and cheese will quickly become a family favorite.
Key Ingredients for the Best Mac and Cheese
- Macaroni: Start with elbow macaroni noodles, but you can swap with other short pasta types.
- Cheese Sauce: A rich sauce made from butter, flour, whole milk, sharp Cheddar, and Parmesan.
- Seasonings: Salt and pepper add flavor to the cheese sauce, and paprika enhances the crispy topping.
- Bread Crumbs: A golden, buttery bread crumb topping gives this mac and cheese extra texture.
How to Make Homemade Mac and Cheese
- Cook the Macaroni: Boil the noodles until al dente, drain, and transfer them to a prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Make a roux by whisking flour and butter, then slowly add milk and melt the cheeses into the mixture.
- Add the Topping: Coat breadcrumbs in melted butter, sprinkle with paprika, and spread evenly over the macaroni.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F until golden and bubbling.
Cheese Choices for Mac and Cheese
Cheddar and Parmesan create the perfect cheesy balance. You can also try alternatives like Gruyere, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for added richness and complexity.
Baking Time
Bake your mac and cheese at 350°F for 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbling.
How to Store and Reheat Mac and Cheese
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, and stir in a little milk to keep it creamy.
Freezing Mac and Cheese
To freeze, portion leftovers into zip-top bags and freeze for up to six months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat before serving.
Ingredients
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 oz uncooked elbow macaroni
- ¼ cup butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2½ cups whole milk (or more if needed)
- 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- Pinch of paprika
Directions
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
Step 2: Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside in the baking dish.
Step 3: In a skillet, melt butter over low heat. Stir in flour until golden brown (3-5 minutes). Gradually whisk in milk and simmer. Add Cheddar and Parmesan, stirring until melted.
Step 4: Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni, stirring to combine.
Step 5: In a separate skillet, melt butter and add bread crumbs. Stir until golden brown. Sprinkle bread crumbs and paprika over the macaroni.
Step 6: Bake for 30 minutes until the topping is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories: 845
Total Fat: 48g | Saturated Fat: 30g | Cholesterol: 142mg | Sodium: 881mg | Carbohydrates: 65g | Protein: 37g
This homemade mac and cheese recipe is creamy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible! Perfect for comfort food cravings.