Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese
A decadent and cheesy mac and cheese recipe, perfect for any occasion. This elevated classic features a rich, creamy sauce and a crispy, golden-brown topping.
Equipment Needed
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Blender
- Large Saucepan
Ingredients
- 1.00 poundElbow Macaroni(Use your favorite small pasta shape.)
- 4.50 cupsMilk(Whole milk for extra richness.)
- 1.00 blockCream Cheese(8 oz block, softened.)
- 5.00 cupsCheddar Cheese(Grated, sharp cheddar recommended.)
- 0.25 cupsButter(Unsalted butter.)
- 1.50 cupsBreadcrumbs(Panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.)
- 0.50 cupsParmesan Cheese(Grated, freshly grated is best.)
- 1.00 cloveGarlic(Minced.)
- 1.50 teaspoonsSalt(Kosher salt.)
- 1.00 teaspoonBlack Pepper(Freshly ground.)
- 1.00 pinchCayenne Pepper(Optional, for heat.)
- 1.00 pinchNutmeg(Optional, for warmth.)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Estimated time: 5 minutes
In a blender, combine milk, cream cheese, salt, garlic, pepper, and optional cayenne/nutmeg. Blend until smooth.
Estimated time: 5 minutes
Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Estimated time: 10 minutes
In a 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta and half of the cheddar cheese.
Estimated time: 5 minutes
Pour the milk mixture over the pasta and cheese.
Estimated time: 2 minutes
In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese until combined.
Estimated time: 5 minutes
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
Estimated time: 2 minutes
Bake for 20 minutes at 425°F (220°C).
Estimated time: 20 minutes
Increase oven temperature to 450°F (232°C) and bake for another 20-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
Estimated time: 25 minutes
Let rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Estimated time: 10 minutes