Pin it
Let me share my go to mac and cheese recipe that's pure comfort in every bite. This isn't just any mac and cheese it's got the perfect blend of cheeses a silky smooth sauce and that irresistible golden breadcrumb topping. I've been perfecting this recipe for years and it never fails to bring smiles to my table.
What You'll Need
- Elbow Macaroni: 1 pound get the good stuff it makes a difference
- Cheddar: 2 cups freshly grated is key here
- Gruyère: 1 cup trust me on this one
- Butter: 4 tablespoons your sauce's best friend
- Flour: 3 tablespoons for that perfect thickness
- Milk: 3 cups whole milk makes it extra creamy
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup for that golden crispy top
Let's Get Cooking
- Start With Perfect Pasta
- Get your pasta going in well salted water cook it just until al dente. It'll keep cooking in the sauce so we want it firm.
- Make That Dreamy Sauce
- Melt your butter add flour and whisk like you mean it. Slowly pour in warm milk keep whisking until it thickens. Then comes the best part adding those gorgeous cheeses.
- Bring It Together
- Fold your pasta into that velvety sauce making sure every piece gets coated. Transfer it to your baking dish.
- Crown It
- Top with those buttery breadcrumbs and bake until golden and bubbly about 20-25 minutes at 375°F.
My Secret Tips
Always grate your cheese fresh those pre shredded bags just don't melt the same. Keep an eye on your pasta al dente is crucial. When making the sauce add your milk gradually and keep whisking it's worth the arm workout for smooth creamy perfection.
Make It Your Own
This recipe loves creative additions. Sometimes I'll toss in crispy bacon or caramelized onions. Try different cheese combinations Monterey Jack or sharp provolone are fantastic. For heat lovers a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños works wonders.
Pin it
Plan Ahead
Here's a great make ahead tip assemble everything but hold off on the breadcrumbs. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to bake let it come to room temperature add those breadcrumbs and pop it in the oven.
Saving Leftovers
If you're lucky enough to have leftovers they'll keep nicely in the fridge for 4 days. For best results reheat portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven covered with foil to keep it moist.
Perfect Partners
We love serving this alongside grilled chicken or with a bright crisp salad. The contrast between the creamy mac and fresh greens is just perfect. Don't forget some crusty bread to soak up any extra cheese sauce.
Gluten Free Success
For my gluten sensitive friends I use gluten free pasta and flour with great results. Just make sure to use gluten free breadcrumbs too. The trick is finding a pasta that holds its shape well.
Pure Comfort
There's something magical about that first scoop revealing all those creamy cheese covered noodles and that crispy top. It's the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table happy from kids to grandparents.
Pin it
That Amazing Topping
Let me share my breadcrumb secret mix them with melted butter garlic powder and a touch of paprika before sprinkling on top. Sometimes I'll add grated parmesan too it gets so golden and crispy.
All About That Cheese
Trust me on grating your own cheese. Those bags of pre shredded just don't melt right because of the anti caking agents. A few minutes with a box grater makes all the difference in your sauce's texture.
Perfect For Any Time
I've served this at casual family dinners holiday feasts and potlucks. It's one of those recipes that just works anywhere. The rich cheesy goodness makes it welcome at any gathering.
Kid Approved
My little ones go crazy for this mac and cheese. Sometimes I'll use fun shaped pasta like shells or wheels to make it extra special. It's the perfect way to sneak in some vegetables too.
Extra Rich Version
When I'm feeling indulgent I'll swap some milk for heavy cream oh my goodness the richness. Sometimes I'll sneak an extra layer of cheese under those breadcrumbs too because more cheese is always good.
Pin it
Sharing The Love
This recipe makes plenty perfect for feeding a crowd. It's my go to for potlucks and family gatherings. Everyone always asks for the recipe and I love sharing these little tricks I've learned over the years.
Make It A Meal
Want to make it heartier? Add some shredded chicken rotisserie works great or crumbled sausage. Diced ham is amazing too. These additions turn your mac and cheese into a complete one dish meal.
Perfect Pasta Every Time
Here's my trick for perfect pasta cook it about 2 minutes less than the package says. It should have a real bite to it because it'll keep cooking in that hot cheese sauce. No one likes mushy mac and cheese.
Freezer Tips
This freezes beautifully just prepare everything but skip the breadcrumbs. Wrap it well and freeze for up to 3 months. You can bake it straight from frozen just add about 15 minutes to the cooking time.
A Timeless Classic
There's a reason mac and cheese has stood the test of time. It's simple ingredients transformed into something magical. This version with its perfect balance of cheeses and that crispy top takes it to the next level.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this ahead?
- Yes, assemble up to 24 hours ahead and store covered in the refrigerator. Add 10-15 minutes to baking time if cooking from cold.
- → Why are my potatoes not cooking evenly?
- Slice potatoes as uniformly thin as possible, ideally using a mandolin. Uneven slices will cook at different rates.
- → Can I use different potatoes?
- While Yukon Golds are ideal for their buttery texture, russet potatoes will also work. Avoid waxy potatoes as they don't absorb the cream sauce as well.
- → Why tent with foil?
- Foil prevents the top from burning while the potatoes cook through. Removing it for the final baking creates the crispy golden top.
- → Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
- While possible, freezing can affect the texture of the cream sauce. Best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for up to 4 days.