Nothing beats the feeling of cozying up with a dish that tastes like a warm hug. This classic mac and cheese brings together creamy, smooth cheese sauce and a satisfyingly crispy topping that makes every bite unforgettable.

I remember the first time I baked this mac and cheese. The smell of melted cheddar and butter filling the kitchen made me smile instantly. When I finally lifted that golden crust and saw the glossy, cheesy pasta beneath, I knew this would be a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love It:
– Creamy, smooth cheese sauce that perfectly coats every elbow macaroni
– The comforting blend of sharp cheddar cheese with buttery, milky richness
– A golden brown, crispy breadcrumb topping that adds irresistible texture
– Simple ingredients and straightforward boiling and baking method
– Served in a shallow white ceramic bowl that showcases the warm yellows and golds beautifully

Ready in under an hour, this recipe is both comforting and approachable—perfect for any night you want to feel at home.

Classic Mac and Cheese

Print Recipe

A creamy baked mac and cheese with sharp cheddar cheese sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4

Ingredients

Elbow Macaroni – 2 cups
Sharp Cheddar Cheese – 3 cups shredded
Butter – 4 tablespoons
All-purpose Flour – 3 tablespoons
Whole Milk – 2 1/2 cups
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Black Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
Breadcrumbs – 1 cup

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Boil elbow macaroni in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in whole milk, cooking until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Season the cheese sauce with salt and black pepper.
Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce, mixing well.
Transfer the mac and cheese to a shallow baking dish or white ceramic bowl suitable for baking.
Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top, followed by a little extra shredded cheese if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of extra cheese and breadcrumbs on top.

FAQ
Q: Can I prepare this mac and cheese ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble it ahead, keep it covered in the fridge, then bake when ready. Just add a few extra minutes to baking time if chilled.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the crispy topping intact.

Save this recipe for your next cozy night in, print it out for easy reference, or dive right in and cook your own creamy, crispy mac and cheese masterpiece.