The Ultimate Mac and Cheese Recipe: Rich, Creamy, and Perfectly Baked
Transform your mealtime with a truly indulgent homemade mac and cheese recipe that stands leagues above the boxed versions. This dish offers a creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked experience that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or hosting a crowd, this recipe delivers consistent results and unforgettable flavor.
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the mac and cheese bakes evenly with a golden, bubbly crust. Use a 10-inch ovenproof frying pan for easy cooking and baking in a single dish.
Step 2: Toast the Breadcrumbs
Breadcrumbs add an irresistible crunch to your mac and cheese. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in your frying pan over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and toast them, stirring occasionally, until they turn a light golden brown. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt for flavor, then transfer the breadcrumbs to a bowl. Reserve them for topping your baked dish later.
Step 3: Soften the Pasta
To ensure perfectly cooked pasta, soak it in hot tap water for about 10 minutes. This step softens the pasta and shortens the baking time. Once soaked, drain the pasta thoroughly to remove excess water.
Step 4: Create the Cheese Sauce
The cheese sauce is the heart of this dish. Start by grating your cheeses to streamline the preparation. Using the same frying pan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually pour in the milk, about ½ cup at a time, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Season with kosher salt (about 1 ½ teaspoons), black pepper, cayenne, and a pinch of nutmeg. Allow the mixture to simmer and thicken, stirring occasionally for 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Cheese and Pasta
Once the cheese sauce is thick and creamy, turn off the heat and stir in all but 2/3 cup of the grated cheese. Mix until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add the soaked pasta to the sauce and stir to coat every piece with the rich, cheesy mixture.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture to the oven. Bake, uncovered, for approximately 30 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden. For a more pronounced crust, broil the dish for an additional 1-2 minutes. Allow the mac and cheese to rest for a few minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Step 7: Serve and Store
Serve your mac and cheese hot, straight from the pan. If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes. While reheating works well, the dish tastes best when freshly baked. Consider reserving it for gatherings where it will impress everyone at the table.
Optional: Make It Ahead
This mac and cheese recipe can be prepared in advance for convenience. Assemble the dish and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Note that baking it fresh ensures the best texture and flavor, but it’s a practical option for busy schedules or special events.