Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy baked macaroni and cheese topped with golden breadcrumbs in a white baking dish
Classic homemade baked macaroni and cheese with a crispy buttery breadcrumb topping – the ultimate comfort food.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni (about 2 cups dry)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%), warmed
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but good)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp dry mustard (optional, for flavor)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 1 tbsp melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 2–3 qt baking dish.
  2. Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain.
  3. In a saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour; cook 1 minute.
  4. Slowly whisk in warmed milk, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened (3–5 minutes).
  5. Remove from heat; stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
  6. Stir cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Pour into baking dish.
  7. Mix breadcrumbs with 1 tbsp melted butter and sprinkle over top.
  8. Bake 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top. Rest 5–10 minutes before serving

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