If you’re craving that ultimate comfort food that wraps you in warmth and cheesy goodness, this Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s creamy, cheesy, with just the right crunch on top, making it the perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you want to treat yourself to a little indulgence. From the rich blend of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella to the buttery, crispy breadcrumb topping, every bite delivers a harmony of textures and flavors that just shout “home.” Whether you’re a Mac and Cheese aficionado or just diving into casseroles, this recipe will soon become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, familiar ingredients is the best part of making this Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe. Each item plays a vital role in melding flavors, creating creamy textures, or adding that irresistible golden finish on top.
- 12 oz elbow macaroni: Perfectly shaped to hold the creamy sauce in every nook and cranny.
- 4 tbsp butter: Used to create a rich roux that thickens the cheese sauce beautifully.
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce for that silky texture.
- 3 cups whole milk: Provides creaminess and richness to the base of the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds extra velvety smoothness and depth to the sauce.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional): A subtle tang that lifts the cheesy flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Brings a mild, savory undertone enhancing the overall taste.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Adds warmth and a hint of earthiness both in the sauce and topping.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential; they balance and brighten the flavors perfectly.
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: The star cheese giving that classic tangy punch.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: For meltiness and stretchiness that make every bite dreamy.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Adds a salty, nutty depth to the cheese blend.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Creates the crispy, golden top that contrasts with the creamy pasta underneath.
- 2 tbsp butter, melted: Mixed with breadcrumbs for buttery crunch.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Sprinkled over the topping to amplify the savory crust.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Sprinkled on top for color and a subtle smoky touch.
How to Make Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your elbow macaroni in salted water until it’s perfectly al dente—just firm enough to hold its shape under that luscious cheese sauce without becoming mushy. Drain it well and set aside, as it will continue cooking in the oven within the casserole and absorb flavors.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a smooth roux, cooking it for 1 to 2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the milk and cream while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon—this creamy base is what makes the Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe truly special!
Step 3: Season and Add Cheese
Next, stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to infuse the sauce with subtle but essential layers of flavor. Remove the pan from heat and mix in the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth, creating a decadent, cheesy sauce that will cling perfectly to every noodle.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Pour your cooked macaroni into the cheesy sauce, folding gently to coat every piece evenly. Transfer this glorious mixture to a greased 9 by 13-inch baking dish, setting the stage for a bubbling, golden-topped casserole that’s ready to bake.
Step 5: Prepare and Add the Topping
Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter, Parmesan, and paprika in a small bowl, then evenly sprinkle this buttery, flavorful topping over the macaroni and cheese. This step ensures a crispy, golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior, making every bite a textural delight.
Step 6: Bake and Serve
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown and the cheese sauce bubbles happily beneath the crust. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle—then dive right in!
How to Serve Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a vibrant color and a fresh herbal note to your Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe. Offering a pinch of cracked black pepper on top just before serving can also amplify the flavor and give it a lovely finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a star, but pairing it with light, crisp sides creates a balanced meal. Consider serving with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh coleslaw to cut through the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, bake individual portions of this Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe in ramekins for personalized servings. Alternatively, try topping it with crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions to surprise guests with extra layers of flavor and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it tightly covered in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent it from drying out, so you can enjoy that comforting cheesy goodness whenever cravings strike.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. After baking and cooling your casserole completely, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months for the best flavor and texture when thawed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly again—usually about 15 to 20 minutes. Cover loosely with foil at first, then remove it during the last few minutes to crisp the topping back up. Microwaving works too but may soften the crunchy topping.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, you can opt for shells, penne, or cavatappi. Just make sure the pasta is cooked al dente so it holds up well during baking.
Is it necessary to use three types of cheese?
Using cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan together creates a wonderful balance of sharpness, creaminess, and nuttiness. However, you can experiment with your favorite cheeses and still get a delicious Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
Yes! Substitute the dairy with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk, vegan butter, and use vegan cheese shreds. It won’t be quite the same but still very tasty and comforting.
How can I make the breadcrumb topping extra crispy?
Mixing melted butter into the breadcrumbs ensures a golden, crunchy topping. You can also toast the breadcrumbs lightly in a pan before adding them on top for extra texture and flavor.
Can I add protein to the Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe?
Definitely! Cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or even sautéed mushrooms can be folded into the pasta before baking to turn it into a more substantial meal without losing that cheesy magic.
Final Thoughts
There is something undeniably heartwarming about a Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe done right, delivering creamy, cheesy satisfaction with every forkful. If you’re looking for a dish that’s dependable, delicious, and sure to please a crowd, this recipe has it all. Go ahead, give it a try—you might just find it becoming your new go-to comfort food that brings smiles every time.
Print
Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Mac and Cheese Casserole is a rich and creamy classic comfort food, combining tender elbow macaroni with a luscious cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Topped with a buttery, crispy breadcrumb crust, it’s baked to golden perfection and perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz (340g) elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Topping
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and slightly golden, which forms the roux for thickening.
- Whisk in Milk and Cream: Slowly add the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in the Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Add the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce evenly. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese in the baking dish.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute whole milk with 2% milk and reduce the amount of heavy cream.
- You can add cooked bacon bits or sautéed vegetables like broccoli for added flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a spicier touch, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
