Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food. It takes you back to being a kid. Boxed mac is okay, but homemade is way better—creamy, rich, and totally satisfying. We’re gonna make the best mac and cheese you’ve ever had, with tips for that perfect cheese pull.
The Creamy Base: Get That Béchamel Right
Good mac and cheese starts with béchamel sauce (butter and flour cooked with milk). It makes the sauce smooth and perfect for holding the cheese. Cook the butter and flour for a minute or two, so there’s no flour taste. Want it extra creamy? Use evaporated milk instead of some of the regular milk. It makes the sauce super rich.
The Cheese: Pick the Best
Cheddar is a must, but mix it up with other cheeses to make it interesting.
| Cheese | Taste | What it Does |
|---|---|---|
| Sharp Cheddar | Classic, tangy | Main flavor |
| Gruyère | Nutty, complex | Helps with melting and adds depth |
| Smoked Gouda | Smoky | Adds a smoky taste |
| Cream Cheese | Rich, smooth | Makes the sauce really smooth and creamy |
For the best cheese pull, use Monterey Jack and Gruyère. A little Velveeta can also help it melt really smoothly.
Recipe: Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
- Prep: 20 mins
- Cook: 30 mins
- Serves: 6-8
What You Need:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp flour
- 3 cups milk, warm (or 2 cups milk, 1 cup evaporated milk)
- 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 4 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, Monterey Jack)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp melted butter, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (for topping)
How to Make It:
- Pasta: Cook the macaroni until it’s not too soft.
- Roux: Melt butter in a pot. Add flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Béchamel: Slowly add warm milk and stir until smooth. Cook until it gets thick (about 5 minutes). Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Cheese Sauce: Take the pot off the heat and stir in 3 cups of cheese until it’s all melted.
- Mix and Bake: Mix the macaroni into the cheese sauce. Put it in a greased baking dish. Top with the rest of the cheese and the breadcrumbs. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Level It Up: Gourmet Ideas
- Protein: Add bacon, chicken, or lobster to make it a full meal.
- Veggies: Mushrooms, caramelized onions, or squash add color and flavor.
- Crispy Crust: Mix Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs for an extra crispy topping.