How to Make Super Cheesy Baked Mac & Cheese

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

• Start by cooking the elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta) according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook it al dente so that the pasta maintains its structure when baked. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

• While the pasta is cooking, you can begin working on the cheese sauce. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden and forms a roux. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth, lump-free sauce.
• Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to combine the ingredients. Once the mixture thickens, add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Continue whisking until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.
• Now, it’s time to add the cheese! Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, letting them melt into the sauce. This is where the magic happens — the sauce becomes velvety, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

• Pour the cooked pasta into the saucepan with the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is completely coated with the cheesy goodness. At this point, you can taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary — feel free to add more salt, pepper, or garlic powder to suit your preferences.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

• To give your mac and cheese that irresistible crispy topping, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter in a small bowl. Stir to coat the breadcrumbs in the butter, ensuring that they’ll crisp up beautifully when baked.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Pour the cheesy pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the buttery panko breadcrumbs over the top, covering the entire surface.
• Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. If you like an extra-crispy top, you can broil the mac and cheese for an additional 2-3 minutes, but be sure to keep an eye on it to avoid burning the breadcrumbs.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Once your baked mac and cheese is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve it as a main dish or as a side to accompany your favorite proteins, like fried chicken or grilled steak.