Go Back

Classic Baked Mac and Cheese

This baked mac and cheese combines tender pasta with a rich, cheesy sauce, layered and baked until bubbling and golden on top. The process involves boiling pasta, mixing cheese with cream and seasonings, then baking until the cheese sauce thickens and the crust crisps up, resulting in a creamy interior with a crispy top.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni sturdy pasta shape
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese sharp or mild, shredded
  • 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk for lighter version
  • 2 tbsp butter for greasing and flavor
  • 1 cup bread crumbs for topping, tossed with butter and paprika
  • 1/2 tsp mustard powder amplifies flavor
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder adds depth
  • 1/2 tsp paprika smoked or sweet

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Broiler

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta and cook until just shy of al dente, about 1 minute less than package instructions. Drain quickly and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly butter your baking dish to prevent sticking.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, shredded cheddar, mustard powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy, then fold in the cooked pasta.
  4. Pour the cheese-coated pasta into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This helps the cheese sauce thicken and bubble during baking.
  5. In a small bowl, toss the bread crumbs with melted butter and paprika for a crunchy topping. Sprinkle evenly over the pasta layer.
  6. Bake in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, until the cheese sauce is bubbling around the edges and the top is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.
  7. Once baked, switch to broil mode for 2-3 minutes to achieve a crispy, golden crust on top. Listen for that satisfying crackle when it’s ready.
  8. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, with a crispy top and a creamy, cheesy interior for a perfect bite.

Notes

For extra flavor, add cooked bacon or sautéed onions. To make it spicy, sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the cheese sauce.