Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsRooster's Barn & GrillHomemade Mac -n- Cheese Recipe

Homemade Mac -n- Cheese Recipe

Time1h
Serves6

A masterful mix of cheeses and classic elbow noodles with a parmesan crust.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Pasta

Method

Cooking the Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil the Pasta

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Making the Cheese Sauce

  1. 2

    Prepare the Roux

    In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until golden, stirring constantly.

  2. 3

    Add Milk

    Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 5-7 minutes.

  3. 4

    Add Cheeses

    Reduce the heat to low, then add the shredded cheddar cheese, Gruyere cheese, and cream cheese. Stir until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.

  4. 5

    Season the Sauce

    Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder to the cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.

Combining and Baking

  1. 6

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is well coated.

  2. 7

    Prepare the Topping

    In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and paprika together.

  3. 8

    Bake the Mac-N-Cheese

    Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Serving

  1. 9

    Serve Hot

    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade mac-n-cheese!

More from Rooster's Barn & Grill