Few dishes bring the same level of comfort and nostalgia as a warm, cheesy casserole straight out of the oven. This mac and cheese casserole is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or just a cozy night in. Its rich, creamy base and golden, crispy topping make it a dish everyone will love—and it’s just as satisfying to make as it is to eat.
Why This Casserole is a Crowd-Pleaser
Mac and Cheese Casserole isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. The creamy blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheese creates a luscious sauce that coats every piece of pasta, while the buttery panko topping adds a satisfying crunch.
The recipe is easy to make and versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite cheeses or add-ins like bacon or vegetables. It’s a dish that brings people together, perfect for any gathering.
Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese Casserole
Mastering Mac and Cheese Casserole is all about balancing creamy textures and crispy toppings. A few simple tips can ensure it turns out perfectly every time. From preparing the pasta to achieving a golden, crunchy topping, these tricks will help you make the most of this classic recipe:
- Cook Pasta to Al Dente: The pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so undercook it slightly to prevent mushy noodles.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Grating cheese yourself ensures it melts smoothly into the sauce. Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that can affect texture.
- Layer the Topping Evenly: Spread the breadcrumb topping in an even layer to ensure every bite gets a bit of crunch.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: A few minutes under the broiler creates a beautifully golden, crispy topping.
What to Serve with Mac and Cheese Casserole
Mac and Cheese Casserole is rich and indulgent, making it the perfect centerpiece for a comforting meal. Pair it with lighter sides or complementary dishes to create a balanced menu that everyone will enjoy:
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots, asparagus, or broccoli for a healthy complement.
- Garden Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette offsets the creamy casserole.
- Garlic Bread: Double down on comfort food with a warm slice of garlic swirl bread.
- Grilled Chicken: Add some protein to your meal with a simple grilled chicken breast.
How to Store and Reheat
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through. For individual portions, you can microwave them, but adding a splash of milk before reheating helps maintain the creamy texture.
Make It Your Own
Mac and Cheese Casserole is endlessly customizable. Swap out Gruyère for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder flavor, or add crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms for extra depth. You can even sneak in some finely chopped veggies for a healthier twist.
Comfort Food at Its Best
Few dishes are as universally loved as Mac and Cheese Casserole. It’s a classic for a reason: the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy pasta and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just indulging yourself, this casserole is a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Mac and Cheese Casserole
Ingredients
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it becomes bubbly and slightly golden.
- Gradually add the milk and whipping cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, for 5–7 minutes until it thickens. Add the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan. Mix in the panko breadcrumbs until they are well coated.
- In a small bowl, combine the buttered breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbling around the edges.
- For an extra-crispy topping, broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly before serving.