Baked Mac & Cheese is a classic comfort food that brings together tender pasta and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked to perfection with a golden, crispy topping. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a hearty, satisfying dish. Here’s a detailed recipe to make a delicious Baked Mac & Cheese.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta shape
- 2 tablespoons salt (for boiling water)
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or additional cheddar)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)