Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a perfectly golden, crispy crust! This old-fashioned baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, just like Grandma used to make!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Ingredients
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 1 lb (450 g) elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
For the Crispy Golden Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ tsp paprika
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 1–2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring continuously.
Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
Cook for 3–5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
3. Add the Cheese
Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until completely melted.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Mix until the sauce becomes creamy, smooth, and rich.
4. Combine Everything
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce.
Stir gently until every piece of pasta is coated in creamy cheese.
5. Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Pour the cheesy macaroni into the dish and spread evenly.
6. Add the Crispy Topping
In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and paprika.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the macaroni, followed by the breadcrumb mixture.
7. Bake Until Golden
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and the topping is beautifully golden brown.
For an extra crispy crust, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Let the baked mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Scoop out a generous portion and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with a golden, crispy topping!
Grandma’s Secret Tips ❤️
- Always shred your own cheese for the smoothest sauce.
- Don’t overcook the pasta before baking.
- Use sharp cheddar for a richer flavor.
- Add a little extra mozzarella for that irresistible cheese pull.
- Serve warm for the best creamy texture.
