A Simple Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting, this Simple Baked Macaroni and Cheese is everything you want in a classic family favorite. Featuring tender elbow macaroni coated in a rich, velvety sauce made with sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, this recipe delivers indulgent flavor in every bite. A golden, buttery panko breadcrumb topping adds the perfect crunch, taking the texture to the next level. With just 15 minutes of prep time and straightforward steps like crafting a smooth roux and baking until bubbly perfection, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings. Perfectly balanced with a touch of paprika and black pepper, this baked macaroni and cheese is a crowd-pleasing favorite that will warm both hearts and appetites.

Nutriscore Rating: 50/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 225 grams elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 0.5 cups grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoons paprika
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

Step 2

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.

Step 4

Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps remain. Continue cooking the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens (about 5 minutes).

Step 5

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 6

Add salt, black pepper, and paprika to the cheese sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7

Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.

Step 8

In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the macaroni and cheese.

Step 9

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Step 10

Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1489.3 grams (1489.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4261

Total Fat 282.50g	362%
Saturated Fat 169.60g	848%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.50g
Cholesterol 847mg	282%
Sodium 5877mg	256%
Total Carbohydrate 259.60g	94%
Dietary Fiber 10.90g	39%
Total Sugars 35.20g
Protein 158.40g	317%

Vitamin D 215IU	1074%
Calcium 3507mg	270%
Iron 11mg	63%
Potassium 807mg	17%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 60.3%

Protein: 15.0%

Carbs: 24.6%