Mac and Cheese Casserole

This Mac and Cheese Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you’re craving something indulgent, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s incredibly creamy, with a rich cheese sauce that clings to every piece of pasta.

The golden breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.

You can customize it with your favorite cheeses or add-ins like bacon or veggies.

It’s a make-ahead friendly dish that reheats wonderfully.

It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers for the next day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 oz (340g) elbow macaroni

4 tbsp butter

4 tbsp all-purpose flour

3 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

For the Topping:

1 cup breadcrumbs

2 tbsp butter, melted

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1/2 tsp paprika

Directions

Cook the Pasta:

I cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Once done, I drain and set it aside.

Make the Sauce:

In a large saucepan, I melt the butter over medium heat.

I whisk in the flour, cooking it for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Gradually, I add the milk and cream, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickened.

I stir in Dijon mustard (optional), garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Add the Cheese:

Removing the saucepan from the heat, I stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is melted and creamy.

Combine:

I mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and pour it into a greased 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking dish.

Prepare the Topping:

In a small bowl, I combine breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and paprika. I sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pasta.

Bake:

Preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C), I bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes until it’s golden brown and bubbly.

Serve:

After letting it cool for 5 minutes, I serve and enjoy the cheesy perfection.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Cheese Swap: I sometimes mix in gouda, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for added depth of flavor.

Add-Ins: Diced bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted vegetables make great additions.

Spicy Kick: Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes spices things up.

Gluten-Free: Using gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs makes this recipe gluten-free friendly.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating: To reheat, I cover the dish with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes. For single portions, the microwave works well too.

Freezing: I freeze the assembled casserole (before baking) for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, I thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.

Related Recipes:

• Simple Mac and Cheese
• The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese
• Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

FAQs

How can I prevent my mac and cheese from drying out?

I ensure the pasta is slightly undercooked before baking and use enough sauce to coat every piece thoroughly.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. I bake it when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs for the topping?

I sometimes use crushed crackers, panko, or even finely chopped nuts for a unique twist.

Is it necessary to use three types of cheese?

No, but I love the flavor complexity the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan combination brings. You can simplify or customize the cheese blend to your liking.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely. I find that shells, penne, or cavatappi also work well.

Conclusion

This Mac and Cheese Casserole is a dish I can rely on for comfort and satisfaction. Whether I’m hosting guests or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this creamy, cheesy bake with its crispy topping never disappoints. With simple ingredients and a few steps, it’s easy to see why this classic recipe is a timeless favorite.

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