Name: Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound dry macaroni pasta; 8 tablespoons butter (1 stick); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 2 cups Half and Half; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Pinch of nutmeg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried mustard; 3 cups Sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup White Cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup panko; 3 tablespoons butter, melted; 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt

Jump to Recipe·4 from 34 reviews

Nothing beats the comfort of a warm, creamy casserole after a long day, and this Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe is my go-to for that perfect cozy meal. It’s packed with a blend of rich cheeses and a crispy, golden topping that creates such a beautiful contrast in textures. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this mac and cheese hits all the right notes and fills your kitchen with that irresistible, mouthwatering aroma that instantly lifts your spirits.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A set of four images shows the cooking process of a creamy cheese sauce being poured over cooked elbow macaroni. The first image shows a large black pan on a wooden surface with thick white sauce being stirred by a wooden spoon held by a woman's hand. The second image shows shredded bright orange cheese being added from a white bowl into the same sauce in the pan. The third image shows the sauce thickened to a smooth golden yellow color as the wooden spoon stirs it in the pan. In the last image, the creamy golden cheese sauce is being poured from the pan into a white bowl filled with pale yellow cooked elbow macaroni, held by a woman's hand. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe plays a crucial role, from the trio of cheeses which build layers of flavor and creaminess, to the subtle seasonings that elevate the dish beyond the basic. The topping adds that essential crunch that makes this dish unforgettable. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this classic dish shine.

1 pound dry macaroni pasta: The sturdy pasta shape that holds the creamy sauce perfectly.
8 tablespoons butter (1 stick): Provides richness and helps create that luscious roux base.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce for a velvety texture without lumps.
2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and balances the cheese’s intensity.
2 cups half and half: Gives an extra smooth and silky finish to the cheese sauce.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle bite that keeps things interesting.
Pinch of nutmeg: Brings subtle warmth and depth, a classic touch to cheese sauces.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a mellow savory note that complements the cheese.
1/2 teaspoon dried mustard: Enhances the sharpness of the cheeses and adds complexity.
3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: The backbone of classic mac and cheese flavor.
1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded: Adds a creamy smoothness and slight tang.
2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded: Offers a nutty, melt-in-your-mouth richness.
1/2 cup panko: For that irresistible crunchy topping that bakes to perfection.
3 tablespoons butter, melted: Binds the topping ingredients and crisps them up wonderfully.
1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt: Seasoning that rounds out the topping with a savory pop.

How to Make Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Space

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or melted butter, so the mac and cheese slides out easily once baked. Setting this up early saves time and keeps everything flowing smoothly.

Step 2: Mix the Topping Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and seasoned salt. This blend will create the golden, crispy topping that is the star crunch of this dish. Set it aside while you focus on the cheese sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the macaroni and cook until it’s just shy of al dente—about two minutes less than the package instructions—so it won’t get mushy during baking. Drain well, then toss with a little olive oil or butter to keep it from sticking. This step ensures each noodle stays distinct and ready to soak up that cheesy sauce.

Step 4: Make the Roux

In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter without letting it brown. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about one minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Slowly add in the whole milk and half and half in a thin, steady stream, whisking constantly to keep the sauce smooth and lump-free.

Step 5: Season and Thicken

Whisk in black pepper, nutmeg, garlic powder, and dried mustard. Continue stirring and heating the sauce until it thickens and coats the back of a wooden spoon—a perfect velvety consistency that can hold up the rich cheeses.

Step 6: Add the Cheeses

Lower the heat, then gradually stir in the sharp cheddar first, allowing it to melt fully before adding more. Repeat with the white cheddar and finish by mixing in the Gruyere. This careful layering melds all three cheeses into one creamy, luscious sauce.

Step 7: Combine Sauce and Pasta

Pour the cheesy sauce over the cooked pasta and stir gently until every bite is joyfully coated. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed to perfectly balance the flavors before transferring the mixture to your prepared baking dish.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Spread the mac and cheese evenly, then sprinkle the buttery panko topping on top. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbling and lightly golden. If you want a deeper crunch, place the dish under the broiler for 2–3 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning. Then, let it rest for 10 minutes so the sauce sets and the flavors intensify.

How to Serve Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

The image shows a white rectangular baking dish filled with macaroni and cheese. The top layer is golden brown and crispy from baked breadcrumbs. Inside, the cheese sauce is creamy and thick, coating the pasta, which is elbow-shaped and soft. A silver spoon is scooping out a portion, revealing the smooth and creamy cheese underneath the crunchy top. The dish is set on a wooden surface with a white marbled texture background. Nearby, there is a small white bowl with green garnish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives gives a burst of color and a fresh flavor contrast. A sprinkle of extra shredded cheese on top just before serving adds indulgence, making each serving feel like a special treat.

Side Dishes

This Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe is a star on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even smoky barbecue meats. The creaminess and richness balance lighter or savory sides for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with fresh thyme sprigs. Or layer in a glass casserole dish to showcase those golden layers. You can even customize by stirring in cooked bacon bits or caramelized onions for extra flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying this delightful meal, allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. They’ll keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, making it easy to grab a comforting portion whenever the craving hits.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well if you want to save some for later. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftover mac and cheese gently in the oven at 350°F until warm throughout—about 20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to bring back some creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! The combination of sharp cheddar, white cheddar, and Gruyere offers a perfect balance, but feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella, fontina, or even a smoky gouda to suit your taste.

What if I don’t have half and half?

If you don’t have half and half, you can substitute with more whole milk and a little heavy cream, which will still yield a rich sauce. The key is to maintain the creamy consistency that makes this dish special.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your panko breadcrumbs are gluten-free or use crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping. This way, no one misses out on the cheesy goodness.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

This Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe is naturally vegetarian as written, but always check your cheese labels for animal rennet if you want to be strictly vegetarian.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Definitely! Just double all ingredients and use a larger baking dish or two smaller ones. Adjust baking time slightly to ensure it’s heated evenly and the topping crisps beautifully on top.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe is truly a celebration of comfort food at its finest. Rich, cheesy, and perfectly baked with that irresistible crunchy top, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection — trust me, once you make this, you’ll be coming back for seconds, thirds, and cozy nights in with this dish on the table. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients, and dive into a dish that feels like a warm hug.