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Baked Macaroni Double Cheese

Baked Macaroni Double Cheese is a timeless comfort food made with tender macaroni coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, then baked until golden with a crisp breadcrumb topping. Featuring sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and a hint of mustard for depth, this oven-baked mac and cheese is indulgent, satisfying, and perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights at home.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

Macaroni & Cheese

  • 5 cups cooked macaroni
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 tablespoon prepared mustard
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or firm mozzarella
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Topping

  • 1/4 cup bread crumbs or panko crumbs
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon fresh chopped Italian parsley

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a medium baking pan (10 x 8 inches) or oven-safe skillet.
  • Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until very al dente, drain well, and set aside.
  • In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley; set aside.
  • In a large pot over low-medium heat, melt butter.
  • Whisk in flour and salt until smooth, then add mustard.
  • Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened and smooth.
  • Add cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until mostly melted.
  • Stir in cooked macaroni until fully coated.
  • Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and sprinkle with breadcrumb topping.
  • Bake for about 25 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
  • Let rest 3–5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Swap cheddar with Gruyère, Colby Jack, or a cheese blend.
  • Use gluten-free pasta and flour if needed.
  • Replace milk with half-and-half for extra richness.

Make-Ahead

  • Assemble the dish up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate.
  • Bake just before serving, adding 5–10 extra minutes if chilled.

Serving Variations

  • Add cooked bacon, ham, or sautéed mushrooms.
  • Mix in steamed broccoli or peas for a veggie boost.
  • Serve as a side with roasted chicken or grilled meats.

Avoid Mistakes

  • Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue cooking in the oven.
  • Whisk constantly when making the roux to avoid lumps.
  • Avoid overbaking to keep the mac and cheese creamy.