If there’s one recipe that always gets rave reviews in my kitchen, it’s this Mac and Cheese Casserole. This warm, bubbling, cheesy classic is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or friendly gatherings. Layers of rich cheese sauce cling to perfectly cooked macaroni, all crowned with a crunchy, buttery topping. Not only is this Mac and Cheese Casserole simple to pull together, but the balance of textures and flavors make it pure magic on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about this Mac and Cheese Casserole is that it requires just a handful of familiar ingredients, each playing an important role in the final dish. Every item brings a unique touch, whether it’s creaminess, spice, or that irresistible cheesy pull.
- Elbow macaroni: The short, curved noodles capture loads of sauce and bake perfectly tender in the casserole.
- Unsalted butter: Gives the sauce its rich base and helps toast the roux for maximum flavor.
- All-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce, ensuring every bite is creamy, never runny.
- Whole milk: Adds richness and helps the sauce achieve a silky, classic texture.
- Heavy cream: Makes the sauce downright decadent and super smooth.
- Garlic powder: Subtle savory note that builds depth without overpowering the cheese.
- Paprika: Lends gentle warmth and a touch of color to the sauce.
- Salt: Balances the cheese and highlights all the flavors.
- Black pepper: Freshly ground is best, adding a slight kick in each forkful.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The main character—brings big, bold, cheesy flavor and gorgeous color.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into the mix for extra gooey, stretchy goodness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty boost and helps brown the top beautifully.
- Seasoned breadcrumbs (optional): Offer that crunchy-topped casserole finish everyone craves.
- Melted butter (for topping): Makes the breadcrumb crust golden and utterly delicious.
How to Make Mac and Cheese Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to set yourself up for the perfect bake. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to keep the Mac and Cheese Casserole from sticking and to make serving those dreamy slices oh-so-easy.
Step 2: Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente—you want a little bite, since it’ll bake more in the oven. Drain the pasta well and set it aside while you prep the cheese sauce.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a big saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour. Stir constantly to create a roux; cook it for a minute or two until bubbly but not browned. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking all the while to create a smooth, lump-free base. Keep whisking gently as it thickens over 5 to 6 minutes, then stir in the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Next comes the best part: mix in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until everything is lusciously melty and smooth.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked macaroni straight into the saucepan and stir until each noodle is drenched in that cheesy, velvety goodness. Pour this irresistible mixture into your prepared baking dish, using a spatula to smooth the top so it bakes up evenly.
Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping
If you like a bit of crunch, mix the seasoned breadcrumbs with melted butter in a bowl and sprinkle them evenly over the top of your casserole. This step is optional, but it adds a golden, crispy layer that takes the whole dish up a notch.
Step 6: Bake and Serve
Bake the Mac and Cheese Casserole uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the edges are bubbling happily. Once it’s done, let it rest for 5 minutes—this little pause makes it easier to cut and serve.
How to Serve Mac and Cheese Casserole
Garnishes
For that finishing touch, shower your Mac and Cheese Casserole with fresh chopped parsley or a hint of extra Parmesan. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or a few twists of cracked black pepper take the presentation (and taste) to another level. If you’re feeling fancy, scatter on crispy bacon bits or a bit of green onion for a pop of color.
Side Dishes
This creamy, baked delight is filling all on its own, but it also loves a good ensemble. Pair it alongside a crisp green salad with a punchy vinaigrette, roasted broccoli, or garlicky green beans to cut through the richness. Warm garlic bread or soft dinner rolls are irresistible for mopping up every last bit of cheese sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
You can have some real fun serving Mac and Cheese Casserole. Try baking it in individual ramekins for a personalized touch at dinner parties, or spoon it into muffin tins for bite-sized mac and cheese cups that kids (and adults!) will go bonkers for. For potlucks, serve it straight from the baking dish and invite everyone to grab a generous scoop.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If by some miracle you have leftovers, store cooled Mac and Cheese Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days and makes for a fabulous next-day lunch or quick dinner.
Freezing
Yes, Mac and Cheese Casserole freezes well! Once baked and fully cooled, portion into airtight, freezer-safe containers. For the best texture, skip the breadcrumb topping before freezing and add it later when you reheat. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To enjoy that just-baked flavor, reheat Mac and Cheese Casserole in the oven at 350°F, covered loosely with foil (to keep it from drying out) until warmed through—about 20 minutes. For smaller portions, the microwave works fine, but add a splash of milk before zapping to keep it creamy.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses in Mac and Cheese Casserole?
Absolutely! You can swap in gruyere, fontina, or pepper jack for different flavors. Just make sure at least one cheese is a good melter—cheddar’s classic for a reason!
Is it possible to assemble Mac and Cheese Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Simply assemble the casserole (without the breadcrumb topping), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the topping and bake when you’re ready to serve.
How do I keep my Mac and Cheese Casserole from drying out?
For the creamiest results, don’t overbake and always cover the casserole while reheating. If it seems dry, stir in a splash of milk before reheating to bring back some creaminess.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You sure can! Substitute gluten-free elbow pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. There are also great gluten-free breadcrumbs available for the topping.
What mix-ins go well in Mac and Cheese Casserole?
Stirring in cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, steamed broccoli, or diced jalapeños can transform the casserole. It’s an easy way to match the flavors to your mood or what’s in your fridge.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Mac and Cheese Casserole enough—it’s a total crowd-pleaser that never fails to make people smile. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, don’t be surprised if it becomes everyone’s most-requested comfort dish. Give it a try and get ready to bask in the compliments!
Print
Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy and cheesy Mac and Cheese Casserole. Perfectly baked with a golden crust, it’s a family favorite that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Macaroni:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping:
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Macaroni: Cook macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Melt butter, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk and cream. Stir in seasonings and cheeses until smooth.
- Combine and Bake: Mix cooked macaroni with cheese sauce, pour into baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden.
- Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider stirring in cooked bacon, diced jalapeños, or crumbled Ritz crackers instead of breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
