There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a homemade baked mac and cheese—creamy, rich, and bubbling with melted cheese under a golden, crispy crust. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of cheesy goodness and tender pasta, making it an all-time favorite comfort dish.
This dish is versatile and easy to customize! Want to add a little protein? Try mixing in sautéed shrimp, crispy bacon, or shredded chicken. Prefer a little spice? A dash of cayenne or smoked paprika will do the trick. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a dish to impress at gatherings, this baked mac and cheese is always a hit.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 8 ounces extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, cubed
- 8 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese, cubed
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (for topping)
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large casserole dish.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add milk and bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
- In a small bowl, mix flour with 2-3 tablespoons of water until smooth. Slowly add the flour mixture to the saucepan, stirring constantly. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cubed cheeses, stirring until melted. Remove from heat.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a microwave-safe bowl.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, melted butter, and beaten eggs. Stir in the cheese sauce. If needed, add a bit more milk to achieve a creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the macaroni mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese and seasoned breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 60 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
History and Origin of Mac and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a beloved comfort food with roots tracing back to Italy and France. The dish became especially popular in the United States in the 18th century when Thomas Jefferson brought back a pasta machine from Europe, and his chef created the first known American version of mac and cheese. Over time, it evolved from a simple stovetop dish to the rich, oven-baked casserole we enjoy today, often featuring layers of melted cheese, buttery breadcrumbs, and a creamy sauce.
What Makes This Baked Mac and Cheese Special?
Phyllis’s homemade baked mac and cheese takes the classic dish to the next level with a rich, velvety cheese sauce made from extra-sharp and sharp cheddar cheeses. The key to its signature creamy texture is the combination of a flour-based roux and warm milk, which thickens into a luscious sauce that coats every macaroni noodle.
Unlike many stovetop mac and cheese recipes, this version finishes in the oven, allowing the top layer of shredded cheese and seasoned breadcrumbs to form a delicious golden crust. This contrast between the creamy interior and crispy topping makes for the ultimate mac and cheese experience.
Key Cooking Tips for the Perfect Baked Mac and Cheese
- Use Quality Cheese – Extra-sharp and sharp Cheddar provide the best depth of flavor. If you want to experiment, try adding Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even smoked Gouda.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente – Since the macaroni will continue to cook in the oven, boil it until it’s just firm to avoid mushy pasta.
- Make a Smooth Cheese Sauce – Slowly whisk the flour mixture into warm milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Avoid overheating the cheese, as it can turn grainy.
- Customize the Crust – While seasoned breadcrumbs add a nice crunch, you can swap them for crushed crackers, panko, or even extra cheese for a gooier top layer.
- Add a Protein or Veggies – Enhance the dish by mixing in cooked bacon, sautéed shrimp, shredded chicken, or roasted broccoli before baking.
What to Serve with Baked Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a hearty dish on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:
- Protein: Grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, or crispy fried chicken
- Vegetables: Steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh garden salad
- Bread: Garlic bread, cornbread, or a warm dinner roll
- Condiments: A drizzle of hot sauce, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or a dash of truffle oil
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes to restore its creamy texture.
- Microwave Option: Add a splash of milk and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
- Freeze for Later: Portion into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.
Mac and Cheese Variations to Try
- Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese – Add chopped jalapeños and a dash of cayenne for a kick.
- Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese – Stir in shredded chicken and a drizzle of buffalo sauce.
- Lobster Mac and Cheese – Fold in chunks of cooked lobster for a luxurious touch.
- Bacon and Caramelized Onion Mac and Cheese – A smoky and sweet flavor combo.
- Truffle Mac and Cheese – A drizzle of truffle oil takes it to gourmet status.
Few dishes can rival the universal appeal of mac and cheese. From childhood memories of indulging in a warm, creamy bowl to enjoying it as a side dish at holiday gatherings, this dish has a special place in kitchens and hearts around the world. Phyllis’s homemade baked mac and cheese takes this classic comfort food to the next level by combining a velvety, cheese-laden sauce with perfectly cooked pasta, all baked to golden perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping.
What makes this dish truly special is the balance of textures and flavors. The contrast between the creamy interior and the slightly crunchy, cheesy crust provides a satisfying bite every time. The richness of extra-sharp and sharp Cheddar cheeses ensures that every forkful is packed with deep, tangy flavors, while the seasoned breadcrumbs add just the right amount of crunch to keep things interesting. Unlike the stovetop version, which is purely creamy, this baked variation delivers a heartier, more indulgent experience—one that feels like a true comfort dish.
Beyond its deliciousness, this baked mac and cheese is incredibly versatile and customizable. It serves as a satisfying main course or a flavorful side dish, pairing well with everything from BBQ ribs and fried chicken to roasted vegetables and fresh salads. Whether you choose to add protein like crispy bacon, shredded chicken, or even sautéed shrimp, or opt for a vegetarian twist with caramelized onions and roasted bell peppers, there are endless ways to make it your own.
Another major advantage of this dish is its convenience. It can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep or holiday gatherings when you want to minimize last-minute kitchen stress. Leftovers store well in the fridge and can easily be reheated without losing their creamy consistency—just a splash of milk and a warm oven bring it right back to life. For those who love to plan ahead, this dish also freezes well, allowing you to enjoy homemade baked mac and cheese even on your busiest days.
There is also something nostalgic and comforting about homemade mac and cheese. It’s a dish that evokes memories of family dinners, cozy evenings, and special occasions. The simple yet satisfying combination of pasta and cheese has remained a beloved staple for generations, and this baked version honors that tradition while elevating it into something truly special.
In a world where fast food and pre-packaged meals dominate, taking the time to prepare something from scratch—melting the cheese, stirring the sauce, and baking it to perfection—brings a sense of warmth and accomplishment. Cooking is more than just a way to nourish the body; it is an act of love, a way to create lasting memories, and a chance to bring people together around the table.
So, whether you’re making this baked mac and cheese for a holiday feast, a weeknight dinner, or simply to satisfy a comfort food craving, you can be sure that every bite will be worth it. Enjoy the rich flavors, the creamy texture, and the irresistible golden crust—because some dishes are simply meant to be savored.