Dinner

Easy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

ByMarina Montclair January 14, 2026January 14, 2026

Introduction

This easy baked mac and cheese recipe is a comforting classic that’s perfect for a cozy meal. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a crispy golden breadcrumb crust, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

A baked macaroni and cheese dish in a white oval baking dish with red outer sides and handles is shown. The top layer is a golden-brown, crunchy breadcrumb crust with some herbs sprinkled throughout. Beneath the crispy topping, you can see creamy, yellow macaroni pasta with a smooth cheese sauce clinging to the curved pasta shapes. The white marbled texture surface surrounds the baking dish, and the background has a warm, cozy kitchen feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (warm)
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
1 cup mozzarella or Colby Jack (shredded)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
1 tablespoon melted butter (for breadcrumbs)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
Step 3: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Step 4: Slowly whisk in warm milk. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar, mozzarella or Colby Jack, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
Step 6: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Step 7: Toss breadcrumbs with melted butter, sprinkle evenly over the top, and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or mustard powder to the cheese sauce.
Substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed Ritz crackers or panko for a different texture.
Use a mix of cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.
Add cooked bacon or caramelized onions for added richness.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the crispy topping, or microwave with a cover for a softer texture.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a baked dish in a red oval ceramic baking dish with small handles on each side. The dish has three clear layers; the bottom layer is tender, slightly yellow pasta shaped in curls, the middle layer is creamy and cheesy in light yellow with smooth texture, and the top layer is a golden brown crumb topping with crunchy, toasted bits and some green herb specks evenly spread. The edges of the baking dish show some baked-on sauce remnants. The whole setup is resting on a wooden surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes like shells, penne, or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta’s package instructions.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the mac and cheese up to the point before baking, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.