Name: Family‑Favorite Baked Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb elbow macaroni; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 3 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp butter, melted; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

Why You’ll Love Family‑Favorite Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Because it brings classic comfort food to life with layered cheese and a luscious sauce that melts in your mouth.
It’s crowd‑friendly and loved by both children and adults alike.
The method is straightforward, with basic ingredients but elevated taste—your shredded cheeses, butter, flour, milk and half‑and‑half combine for serious creaminess.
It gives you flexibility: you can serve it as is, add toppings like bacon or breadcrumbs for crunch, or even make ahead.

Ingredients

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

Dried elbow pasta
Unsalted butter
All‑purpose flour
Whole milk
Half‑and‑half (or equivalent dairy mix)
Shredded medium cheddar cheese (divided)
Shredded Gruyère cheese (divided)
Salt
Black pepper
Smoked paprika (or regular paprika)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325 °F (163 °C) and grease a 3‑quart baking dish (or 9×13″ dish).
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta 1 minute less than the package instructions. Drain and drizzle with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking, if desired.
While the pasta cooks, shred all cheeses and divide into three groups: 3 cups for the sauce, 1½ cups for layering, and 1½ cups for the topping.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1 minute.
Slowly whisk in 2 cups of the half‑and‑half until smooth, then add the remaining half‑and‑half and the milk. Cook until the sauce thickens to a consistency like slightly thinned condensed soup.
Remove from heat and stir in paprika, salt, pepper, and the first 1½ cups of shredded cheese. Stir until melted, then add the second 1½ cups of cheese and stir again until smooth.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta with the cheese sauce and mix thoroughly.
Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared dish, sprinkle with 1½ cups of cheese, add the remaining pasta mixture, then top with the final 1½ cups of cheese.
Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8–10
Prep time: Approximately 20 minutes
Cook time: Approximately 15 minutes
Total time: About 35 minutes

Variations

Add crispy crumbled bacon either mixed in or on top for a smoky twist.
Create a crunchy topping using 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs mixed with 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
Swap out cheeses: try mozzarella, Colby, Gouda, Munster, or Swiss to mix up the flavor profile.
For a firmer, more golden top, increase the oven temp to 350 °F or 375 °F and bake 20–30 minutes. Broil for 2–5 minutes at the end if desired.
Skip the baking step for a creamy stovetop version: just mix the pasta and cheese sauce and serve immediately.

Storage/Reheating

To store: Let cool, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
To reheat: Add a splash of milk or cream and reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Stir occasionally for even heating.
Make‑ahead option: Assemble (unbaked), cover, and refrigerate 1–2 days ahead. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

FAQs

What kinds of cheese can I use besides cheddar and Gruyère?

You can use mozzarella, Gouda, Colby Jack, Swiss, Munster, or any cheese that melts well. Mix and match for different flavor profiles.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the dish up to 2 days ahead (unbaked), cover and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before baking.

Is it possible to freeze this dish?

You can assemble it before baking and freeze it. Thaw completely in the fridge, then bake with a few extra minutes added to the cook time.

How can I make the top extra crunchy?

Use a breadcrumb topping or crushed crackers. You can also bake longer at a higher temperature, or broil for a few minutes at the end.

Should the pasta be fully cooked before baking?

No. Cook the pasta 1 minute less than the package says for best texture once baked.

What if the sauce seems too thick or too thin?

If too thick, add a bit more milk. If too thin, cook longer before adding the cheese until it thickens to a creamy consistency.

Can I change the seasoning in the sauce?

Yes. Add garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard, or hot sauce to customize the flavor.

How do I ensure the cheeses melt smoothly?

Shred cheese from blocks instead of using pre‑shredded cheese, which can contain anti‑clumping agents that affect melting.

What size baking dish should I use?

A 3‑quart dish or a standard 9×13″ baking dish works perfectly.

Is this suitable as a main dish or side dish?

It’s great as both. Serve it alone as a main course or alongside meats and vegetables as a rich, satisfying side.

Conclusion

This family‑favorite baked mac and cheese is the definition of indulgent comfort. With its creamy, cheesy layers and satisfying texture, it’s perfect for family dinners, holiday tables, or weeknight cravings. Customize it your way and enjoy a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious.