Homemade Mac and Cheese with Buttery Bread Crumb Topping 🧀
Craving comfort food at its finest? This homemade mac and cheese is the ultimate indulgence, featuring a rich, creamy cheese sauce made from scratch, topped with golden buttered bread crumbs for that perfect crunch. Skip the box and make this from-scratch recipe a staple in your dinner rotation!
Ingredients for Homemade Mac and Cheese
These simple ingredients come together to create the best mac and cheese you’ll ever make:
Mac & Cheese
Mac and Cheese:
8 oz uncooked elbow macaroni
1/4 cup salted butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups milk (plus more if needed)
2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Bread Crumb Topping:
2 tbsp salted butter
1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
1 pinch ground paprika
Directions
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2️⃣ Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until just tender. Drain and transfer to the prepared baking dish.
3️⃣ Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt 1/4 cup butter in a skillet over low heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, stirring for 3-5 minutes until light golden brown. Gradually whisk in 2 1/2 cups milk and bring to a simmer.
4️⃣ Add the Cheese: Stir in shredded Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Season with salt and pepper. Continue stirring over low heat until the cheese is melted and the sauce is thick, about 3-5 minutes. Add more milk if needed for the desired consistency.
5️⃣ Combine Macaroni and Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni, stirring until everything is well coated.
6️⃣ Prepare the Topping: Melt 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add bread crumbs and stir until well coated and golden brown.
7️⃣ Assemble and Bake: Spread the buttered bread crumbs evenly over the macaroni and cheese. Sprinkle with paprika. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the mac and cheese is bubbling.
Can You Freeze Mac and Cheese?
Absolutely! Freeze leftovers if you won’t eat them within four days. Divide into portions, wrap in foil, and freeze flat in zip-top bags for up to six months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Community Tips
Almond Milk Option: “I use almond milk instead of regular and add chicken for a delicious casserole twist!” – Magic
Extra Crunch: “My family loves this recipe! I top it with fried onions for the last 5 minutes.” – Von Shively
Flavor Boost: “I add garlic and a dash of chili pepper, topping with crushed saltines and bacon. It’s my new favorite!” – Amy Lemelin
This homemade mac and cheese is pure, cheesy goodness—perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. Enjoy!