Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese

Written By Kalpi Prasad

Raji’s Mac and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy, crispy-topped perfection with a story of love and resilience behind every bite.

Here’s a warm and soulful Mac and Cheese recipe, inspired by long afternoons in the kitchen when I needed comfort the most. I remember making this dish the day after my sister passed—stirring the béchamel gave me something to do, and the first bite reminded me that life could still offer little joys, even in grief. It’s homely, indulgent, and healing.

🧀 Ingredients

For the pasta:

  • 400g elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)

  • Salt, for boiling water

For the cheese sauce:

  • 50g unsalted butter

  • 50g plain flour

  • 600ml full cream milk (warm)

  • 200ml thickened cream

  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 150g cheddar cheese, grated

  • 100g mozzarella, grated

  • 50g parmesan, grated

For the topping:

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

  • 30g butter, melted

  • 2 tbsp grated parmesan

🍳 Method

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (fan-forced). Lightly grease a 20x30cm baking dish.

  2. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

  3. Make the roux: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes until golden and bubbling.

  4. Create the béchamel: Gradually pour in warm milk and cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Stir until thickened and smooth—this should take 4–5 minutes.

  5. Add flavour: Stir in mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then mix in all the cheeses until melted and velvety.

  6. Combine: Fold in the cooked pasta until every piece is coated. Pour into the prepared baking dish.

  7. Crunchy topping: Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the top.

  8. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden and bubbling.

  9. Rest & serve: Let sit for 5 minutes before serving—this helps it set slightly and intensifies the flavour.

💭 Kitchen Notes

  • Swap half the milk for evaporated milk for an ultra-silky texture.

  • Add crispy bacon, caramelised onions, or roasted pumpkin cubes for a twist.

  • This freezes well and reheats beautifully—perfect for days when cooking feels too hard.

Kalpi Prasad