Description
This modern MAC AND CHEESE BAKE is comfort in a dish—a creamy, cheesy casserole that’s rich in nostalgia and flavor. With a golden breadcrumb topping and endless customization options, it’s the perfect upgrade for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
1 lb elbow macaroni (or cavatappi)
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1½ tsp salt
½ tsp white pepper
¼ tsp cayenne (optional)
2 cups sharp cheddar, shredded
1 cup mozzarella, shredded
1 cup smoked gouda or gruyère
½ cup parmesan (for topping)
¾ cup panko breadcrumbs tossed with olive oil
Optional: cooked turkey bacon, caramelized onions, spinach
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13″ baking dish.
2. Cook pasta to al dente, about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions.
3. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour, and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Simmer for 5 minutes to thicken.
5. Add mustard, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Lower heat and stir in cheddar, gouda, and mozzarella until melted.
6. Fold cooked pasta into cheese sauce and combine gently.
7. Transfer mixture to baking dish and top with parmesan and prepared breadcrumbs.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
9. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
You can swap in oat milk or gluten-free alternatives as needed.
To make ahead, assemble through Step 7, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
For extra creaminess, add sour cream or whipped cream cheese to the sauce.
Freeze assembled unbaked dish for up to 2 months—thaw before baking.
Breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a great crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, comfort food, baked pasta, casserole