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Easy mac and cheese recipe baked

This easy baked mac and cheese recipe delivers creamy, cheesy pasta with a crispy golden topping, perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

For the Mac and Cheese:
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni or any short pasta like shells or cavatappi
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk warmed
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard optional, for a flavor boost
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika optional, for extra flavor
Optional Add-Ins:
  • Cooked bacon crumbles
  • Steamed broccoli or peas
  • Diced jalapeños for a spicy kick

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add pasta and cook until just under al dente (1–2 minutes less than package). Drain and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat.
  4. Whisk in ¼ cup flour. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  5. Slowly add 2 cups warm milk and 1 cup cream. Whisk until smooth.
  6. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Lower the heat.
  7. Stir in 2 cups cheddar, 1 cup mozzarella, Dijon mustard (optional), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until melted and smooth.
  8. Add the pasta to the sauce. Stir until evenly coated.
  9. Pour the pasta mixture into the baking dish.
  10. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup cheddar on top.
  11. In a small bowl, mix 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp melted butter, ¼ cup Parmesan, and smoked paprika (optional).
  12. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the pasta.
  13. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  14. For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes (watch carefully).
  15. Let cool for 5 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!