This timeless classic is everything you love about homemade comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and topped with that golden, bubbly crust that makes you say “just one more scoop.”
⏱️ Time & Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per Serving: ~460 kcal
🛒 Ingredients
Pasta & Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter 🧈
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ cups whole milk 🥛
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt 🧂
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese 🧀
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Topping (Optional but Recommended)
- 1/2 cup panko or regular breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, for topping
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Boil the Pasta
Cook elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in milk and cream. Simmer until slightly thickened, 4–5 minutes.
3️⃣ Add Seasoning & Cheese
Stir in salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella until smooth and melty.
4️⃣ Combine with Pasta
Add drained pasta to the cheese sauce and mix until fully coated.
5️⃣ Transfer & Top
Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top. Add extra shredded cheddar for that crispy, cheesy finish.
6️⃣ Bake to Perfection
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
💛 Why You’ll Love This
- Thick, creamy cheese sauce made from scratch
- Classic flavor just like grandma used to make
- Golden baked topping with cheesy pull-apart bites
- Perfect as a main dish or a side at any gathering
- No weird ingredients—just real, comforting goodness
💡 Helpful Tips
- Want it extra gooey? Stir in more shredded cheese just before baking.
- Add-ins like caramelized onions, roasted garlic, or spinach can level it up.
- Use evaporated milk for a richer, old-school diner taste.
- Leftovers? Add a splash of milk when reheating to revive the creaminess.
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