Garlic Powder/Oregano/Thyme – These spices add flavor and depth.

Milk – We use whole milk, but you can use low fat as well.

Flour – We use all purpose flour as a thickening agent to help create the luxurious, creamy sauce.

If Panko is not available, you can substitute regular bread crumbs.

Panko Bread Crumbs – Panko gives this mac and cheese that extra crispy topping without feeling super heavy.

Butter – Butter helps meld all the sauce ingredients together since it is mostly a fat.

Other cheeses that you can use include monterey jack, mozzarella, colby, havarti, or really any personal favorite!

Gruyère Cheese – We also use gruyère cheese as we love the creamy texture and nutty flavor that combines so well with the sharp cheddar.

We advise to buy cheddar cheese in a block and shred or grate it yourself, as the pre-shredded bags of cheese contains a starchy substance which inhibits the melting process. Cheddar cheese in general has a fairly low melting point, which means it melts at a lower temperature, making it ideal to use.

Cheddar Cheese – We use sharp cheddar, as it has a stronger flavor.Macaroni – Elbow macaroni is the perfect pasta to use for this recipe as they are small enough to eat and their hollow shape allows the creamy, cheese sauce to hold on to them.Read the Recipe Card for the measurements. This recipe uses super easy ingredients that can be purchased from a local grocery store if they are not already in your kitchen. Kids school lunch option – just keep warm in thermos.This baked mac and cheese is perfect for holiday meals, family get togethers, dinner parties, or just because! Why This Recipe Works? Topped with a crunchy Panko based crust, the end result is an easy mac and cheese that is sure to become your go-to recipe. We use a roux (butter/flour mixture) that allows the sharp cheddar and gruyère cheese combo to create a thick, cheesy sauce that tastes luxurious. With a crunchy texture on the outside and full of creamy, cheesy goodness on the inside, this baked mac and cheese is sure to be a crowd pleaser, whether cooking for your friends, family, or just yourself! Rich, Decadent, and Creamy, this homemade mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food.

Best baked mac and cheese recipe ever