Description
This Homemade John Legend’s Baked Mac And Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—rich, golden, and incredibly cheesy. It’s an easy dinner idea or the perfect side for special occasions. Whether you’re looking for quick comfort meals or classic food ideas, this baked mac and cheese checks all the boxes. With sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and creamy evaporated milk, it delivers a satisfying dish that’s sure to impress. Ideal for holiday dinners, weeknight meals, or when you just need a big bowl of cheesy goodness. A go-to recipe for fans of bold flavor, hearty textures, and homemade comfort.
Ingredients
1 lb elbow macaroni
24 oz evaporated milk
0.5 cup whole milk
2 large eggs
0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted
0.5 tsp seasoned salt
0.5 tsp garlic powder
0.5 tsp onion powder
0.5 tsp ground black pepper
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
0.5 tsp paprika (optional)
0.25 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni until al dente, about 6–7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, whole milk, eggs, melted butter, seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Add the cooked macaroni to the milk mixture. Stir in 1.5 cups of cheddar, 1.5 cups of Monterey Jack, and all of the Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour in the mac and cheese mixture and spread evenly.
5. Sprinkle remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack on top. Add paprika and/or breadcrumbs if using.
6. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until bubbly and golden. Broil for 2–3 minutes if a crispier top is desired.
7. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Letting the dish rest after baking improves the texture and flavor.
Always use freshly grated cheese for the creamiest melt and best flavor.
Add breadcrumbs on top for a crispy, restaurant-style finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish / Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 130mg