Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare everything up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.

Why is my cheese sauce grainy instead of smooth?

Grainy sauce usually happens when the cheese is added to a sauce that's too hot or when the sauce is cooked at too high a temperature. Always remove the pan from direct heat before adding cheese and melt it gradually over low heat. Using pre-shredded cheese (which contains anti-caking agents) can also cause graininess.

Can I use gluten-free pasta and flour for this recipe?

Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta (corn and rice blends work well) and substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious.

My topping isn't getting crispy enough. What can I do?

For an extra-crispy topping, mix 2 tablespoons of melted butter with the breadcrumb mixture before sprinkling it on top. You can also place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese Recipe

Name: Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 27 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 ounces cavatappi pasta; ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter; 5 teaspoons garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups (490 g / 16 ounces) whole milk; 1 cup (238 g) heavy whipping cream; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon ground mustard; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ block (4 ounces) cream cheese, cubed; 1 ½ cups (169.5 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided; 1 ½ cups (150 g) parmesan cheese, grated, divided; 1 cup (108 g) plain breadcrumbs; ½ teaspoon paprika; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

This ridiculously creamy Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese takes comfort food to a whole new level. With a rich, velvety cheese sauce infused with fresh garlic and parmesan, topped with a crispy golden crust, this dish transforms the classic mac and cheese into something truly special. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s perfect for those evenings when you crave something indulgent but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Restaurant-Quality at Home: This isn’t your ordinary boxed mac and cheese—it’s a gourmet version that rivals anything you’d find at an upscale restaurant.
Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will go crazy for this dish. It’s sophisticated enough for dinner parties yet familiar enough for picky eaters.
Versatile: Works beautifully as a main dish with a simple salad or as a spectacular side for grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
Perfect Texture: The combination of the creamy, cheesy sauce with the al dente pasta and crispy topping creates an incredible textural experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cavatappi pasta: The spiral shape is perfect for holding onto the rich sauce. Substitute with elbow macaroni, shells, or any short pasta you prefer.
Butter: Creates the base for our roux and adds richness. Always use unsalted to control the saltiness of your dish.
Fresh garlic: Provides an aromatic, savory foundation. Don’t be shy here—the fresh garlic is what makes this dish special.
All-purpose flour: Works with butter to create a roux that thickens our sauce to the perfect consistency.
Whole milk and heavy cream: The combination creates the perfect richness. For a lighter version, you could use all milk, but the sauce won’t be quite as luxurious.
Garlic powder: Reinforces the fresh garlic flavor and distributes it evenly throughout the sauce.
Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish. Sea salt works well too.
Ground mustard: A secret ingredient that adds depth without tasting “mustardy.”
Black pepper: Provides a subtle warmth and complexity.
Cream cheese: The magic ingredient that makes the sauce extra creamy and prevents it from breaking.
Mozzarella cheese: Adds that perfect stretch factor when you take a bite.
Parmesan cheese: The star of the show, providing a nutty, salty depth of flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Creates that irresistible crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.
Paprika: Adds a beautiful color and subtle smoky note to the topping.
Fresh parsley: Not just for decoration—it adds a fresh note that cuts through the richness.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Different Cheese Combinations

Try swapping some of the cheeses for Gruyère for a nutty flavor, sharp cheddar for traditional mac and cheese taste, or fontina for an extra-melty texture.

Protein Additions

Add cooked bacon pieces, shredded rotisserie chicken, or crispy pancetta to transform this side dish into a hearty main course.

Vegetable Mix-Ins

Fold in sautéed mushrooms, roasted broccoli florets, peas, or caramelized onions before baking for added nutrition and flavor.

Spicy Version

Add a kick with a dash of cayenne pepper, a few tablespoons of pickled jalapeños, or a drizzle of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 400°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Gather and measure all your ingredients before starting—this recipe moves quickly once you begin.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook the cavatappi until it’s al dente, usually 1-2 minutes less than the package directions suggest. Before draining, reserve a cup of the starchy pasta water. This is your secret weapon if your sauce needs thinning later.

Step 3: Create the Garlic Base

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for just a minute until fragrant. This step infuses the butter with garlicky goodness without burning the garlic.

Step 4: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the garlic butter mixture and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes. You’re looking for a light golden color, which indicates the flour has cooked but hasn’t browned too much.

Step 5: Create the Sauce Base

Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. This gradual approach ensures a smooth sauce.

Step 6: Season and Add Cream Cheese

Add the garlic powder, salt, ground mustard, pepper, and cubed cream cheese. Whisk until the cream cheese completely melts and incorporates into the sauce.

Step 7: Add the Cheeses

Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and 1 cup of Parmesan, mixing continuously until fully melted and incorporated. If the sauce seems too thick at this point, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 8: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to your cheese sauce, stirring gently until every piece is coated in cheesy goodness. Transfer this mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 9: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, combine the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan with the breadcrumbs and paprika. This topping will create that irresistible golden crust that makes this dish special.

Step 10: Bake to Perfection

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over your pasta. Bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbling and golden. For an extra-crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end—just watch it carefully to prevent burning.

Step 11: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve while hot and bubbling. The contrast between the bright green parsley and the golden crust is absolutely gorgeous.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since it will continue cooking in the oven, aim for al dente when boiling the pasta.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your cream cheese sit out for 30 minutes before using, and grate cheese at room temperature for better melting.
Freshly Grate Your Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Grating your own ensures the smoothest sauce.
Taste Before Baking: Adjust seasonings in the sauce before adding the pasta. Remember, the Parmesan will add saltiness as it melts.
Rest Before Serving: Let the mac and cheese sit for 5 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce set up slightly for easier serving.

How to Serve

Main Dish Pairing

Serve alongside a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the mac and cheese.

Side Dish Suggestions

This mac and cheese pairs beautifully with grilled steak, roasted chicken, or smoked ribs. It’s also perfect alongside roasted vegetables for a vegetarian meal.

Garnish Ideas

Beyond parsley, try a sprinkle of thinly sliced green onions, a few red pepper flakes for color and heat, or even some crispy fried sage leaves for an elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavor actually improves overnight as the garlic and cheese flavors meld together.

Freezing

This mac and cheese freezes beautifully! Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Add a splash of milk before reheating to revive the creamy texture. For smaller portions, microwave with a tablespoon of milk, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare everything up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.
Why is my cheese sauce grainy instead of smooth?

Grainy sauce usually happens when the cheese is added to a sauce that’s too hot or when the sauce is cooked at too high a temperature. Always remove the pan from direct heat before adding cheese and melt it gradually over low heat. Using pre-shredded cheese (which contains anti-caking agents) can also cause graininess.
Can I use gluten-free pasta and flour for this recipe?

Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta (corn and rice blends work well) and substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious.
My topping isn’t getting crispy enough. What can I do?

For an extra-crispy topping, mix 2 tablespoons of melted butter with the breadcrumb mixture before sprinkling it on top. You can also place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese transforms a childhood favorite into a sophisticated dish that’s worthy of any dinner table. The combination of fresh garlic, three types of cheese, and that crispy topping creates layers of flavor that make this so much more than ordinary mac and cheese. Whether you’re serving it as a comforting family meal or bringing it to a potluck, this recipe is sure to become a requested favorite. Give it a try the next time you’re craving something creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying!