Go Back
–+ servings

Ultimate Homemade Mac and Cheese

Rich, creamy baked mac and cheese made with a velvety cheddar sauce, crisp buttery breadcrumb topping, and foolproof, step-by-step technique.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded (from blocks, not pre-shredded)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk room temperature
  • 1 tsp kosher salt plus more for pasta water
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard optional, for depth
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted (for topping)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for topping
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika optional, for finishing

Method
 

  1. Measure all ingredients. Shred cheddar, bring milk to room temperature, and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente (7–8 minutes). Drain well.
  3. Melt 4 tbsp butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 4 tbsp flour and cook 1–2 minutes until lightly golden and nutty.
  4. Gradually whisk in 3 cups milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook 5–7 minutes until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  5. Remove from heat. Stir in shredded cheddar in batches until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and Dijon (if using).
  6. Return drained pasta to the pot. Pour cheese sauce over and mix until every piece is coated.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread mac and cheese evenly in the greased baking dish.
  8. Combine panko with 2 tbsp melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the surface; dust with smoked paprika if desired.
  9. Bake 20–25 minutes until bubbling at the edges and the top is golden brown. Tent with foil near the end if topping browns too quickly.
  10. Rest 5–10 minutes for the sauce to set. Garnish with parsley or chives and serve warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 25gFiber: 2gSugar: 3g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!