Baked Mac and Cheese
There are plenty of mac and cheese recipes out there, but every now and then you find one that reminds you why the classic never goes out of style.
This version is baked until the cheese is bubbling around the edges, topped with a crispy buttery crumb, and finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a little colour and freshness.
The pasta stays creamy underneath that golden crust, giving you the best of both worlds in every spoonful.
It’s hearty enough to stand on its own, but it also fits right in beside barbecue, roasted meats, or a holiday dinner.
If you’re after that comforting baked casserole everyone goes back for seconds of, this one delivers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultra creamy cheese sauce.
- Crispy buttery topping.
- Golden baked cheese crust.
- Family-friendly comfort food.
- Easy to prepare ahead.
- Perfect for holidays and potlucks.
- Freezer friendly.
- Simple pantry ingredients.
- Rich, cheesy flavour in every bite.
- Great as a main dish or side.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 16 ounces (450g) elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Cheese
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Crispy Topping
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Kitchen Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Topping
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the macaroni until just al dente.
- Drain well.
- Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour.
- Cook for about 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in the milk.
- Add the heavy cream.
- Stir until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Add:
- Dijon mustard
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Smoked paprika
- Salt
- Pepper
- Stir in:
- Cheddar
- Mozzarella
- Parmesan
- Continue stirring until completely melted.
Step 3: Combine
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce.
- Fold gently until every piece is coated.
Step 4: Assemble
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pour the macaroni mixture into the dish.
- Spread evenly.
Step 5: Make the Crispy Topping
In a small bowl combine:
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Melted butter
- Parmesan cheese
Mix until evenly coated.
Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes.
- Bake until:
- The topping is golden brown.
- The cheese is bubbling around the edges.
- The centre is hot and creamy.
Step 7: Garnish
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle generously with chopped parsley.
- Serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Cook the pasta slightly under al dente since it finishes cooking in the oven.
- Shred your own cheese for the smoothest sauce.
- Whisk the sauce constantly to prevent lumps.
- Don’t overbake or the sauce may become dry.
- Let the casserole rest before serving so it sets slightly.
- Add the parsley just before serving for the freshest finish.
Easy Variations
- Add crispy bacon pieces.
- Stir in cooked shredded chicken.
- Mix in steamed broccoli.
- Add sautéed mushrooms.
- Use Gruyère for extra richness.
- Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne into the cheese sauce.
- Add diced jalapeños for a little heat.
What to Serve With Baked Mac and Cheese
This casserole pairs well with:
- Barbecue ribs
- Roast chicken
- Meatloaf
- Pulled pork
- Grilled steak
- Green beans
- Roasted broccoli
- Garden salad
- Garlic bread
Storage
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheating
- Microwave individual portions until hot.
- Or reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes.
- Add a splash of milk if needed to keep it creamy.
Freezing
Freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make it ahead?
Yes.
Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to one day before baking.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar provides the classic flavour, while mozzarella adds stretch and Parmesan adds depth.
Can I use another pasta shape?
Absolutely.
Shells, cavatappi, rotini, or cavatelli all hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
Why is my sauce grainy?
Freshly shredded cheese melts much more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
How do I keep the topping crispy?
Bake uncovered and avoid covering the casserole until after it has cooled.
Final Thoughts
Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Topping is everything you want from a comforting casserole.
Creamy macaroni coated in a rich cheese sauce, baked beneath a golden layer of bubbling cheese and buttery crisp breadcrumbs, creates the perfect contrast of textures.
Finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, it’s a timeless recipe that’s just as welcome on a holiday table as it is for an easy family dinner.
