The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

 

The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

This homemade baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious. With a rich, velvety sauce and a golden, crispy topping, this recipe is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy nights in. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to the boxed version!

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese:

16 oz (450g) elbow macaroni

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

3 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons melted butter

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni until just al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions). The pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so avoid overcooking.

3. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.

2. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it forms a smooth paste.

3. Slowly add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until thickened (about 3-5 minutes).

4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses, one handful at a time. Stir until fully melted and smooth.

5. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 3: Combine and Assemble

1. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.

2. Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 4: Make the Topping and Bake

1. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and dried parsley (if using).

2. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.

3. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the baked mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.

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Pro Tips

✔ Prevent Mushy Pasta: Cook the macaroni slightly underdone to avoid overcooking during baking.

✔ Make It Ahead: Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake before serving.

✔ Customize It: Add cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or diced jalapeños for extra flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for balance.

Serve as a main dish or a side for holiday meals, barbecues, or weeknight dinners.

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This creamy, cheesy baked mac and cheese is sure 

to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy night in, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Fluffy and Buttery Soft Pastry

 Fluffy and Buttery Soft Pastry Recipe – The Ultimate Homemade Delight

Introduction

Imagine biting into a soft, pillowy pastry with a golden, buttery crust—warm, fluffy, and just the right amount of sweetness. This homemade soft pastry recipe is irresistibly tender, with a rich, buttery flavor and a delicate texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you're making it for breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or a special occasion, this pastry is guaranteed to impress.

Unlike store-bought options, this recipe ensures freshness, premium taste, and a perfect texture every time. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make, even for beginners! Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this bakery-style soft pastry right in your kitchen.

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Ingredients and Their Roles

1 cup warm milk – The warmth activates the yeast, while the milk enriches the dough, giving it a soft texture.

1 cup warm water – Helps in dissolving the yeast and provides the necessary moisture for a tender dough.

1 tablespoon instant yeast – The key to a light and fluffy pastry, allowing the dough to rise beautifully.

1 tablespoon sugar – Feeds the yeast, speeding up fermentation, and adds a subtle sweetness.

1 teacup vegetable oil (about ½ cup) – Keeps the pastry soft and prevents it from drying out.

1 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough structure.

4–5 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of the dough, giving it structure and elasticity. Add gradually to achieve the perfect consistency.

1 egg (for egg wash, optional) – Creates a golden, glossy finish when brushed on top before baking.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, warm water, yeast, and sugar.

2. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is activated and ready to work.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

3. Add vegetable oil and salt, then gradually mix in flour, one cup at a time.

4. Stir until the dough starts coming together, then transfer it to a floured surface.

5. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, but avoid overloading it.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

6. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Pastries

7. Once risen, punch down the dough to release air bubbles.

8. Divide into equal portions and shape into rolls, crescents, or any desired pastry form.

9. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Second Rise & Baking

10. Cover and let the shaped dough rise for another 30 minutes.

11. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

12. Brush with egg wash (if using) for a golden crust.

13. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

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Why You’ll Love This Soft Pastry Recipe

✔ Fluffy & Buttery – Perfectly soft inside with a slight chewiness.

✔ Beginner-Friendly – Simple ingredients and easy techniques.

✔ Customizable – Add chocolate, jam, or savory fillings.

✔ Irresistible Freshness – Nothing beats homemade goodness!

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Pro Tips for Perfect Soft Pastries

✅ Use warm (not hot) liquid – Too hot can kill the yeast, while too cold won’t activate it.

✅ Knead thoroughly – This develops gluten, ensuring a soft yet structured dough.

✅ Let it rise fully – Rushing the process can result in dense pastries.

✅ Don’t overbake – Take them out when golden to keep them soft.

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Serving Suggestions

Breakfast: Pair with butter and jam or drizzle with honey.

Tea Time: Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

Dessert: Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a side of whipped cream.

Savory Option: Add cheese or herbs for a delicious twist!

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Conclusion

This homemade soft pastry recipe is the perfect way to bring bakery-style goodness into your home. With its light, fluffy texture and rich, buttery flavor, it’s a treat that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or paired with your favorite spreads, these pastries will quickly become a household

 favorite.

Give this recipe a try, and let us know how it turns out! Save, share, and enjoy your homemade soft pastries today!