Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese: Creamy, Cheesy & Irresistible

If you love rich, creamy, and ultra-cheesy mac and cheese, this Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese is next-level delicious! Made with buttery roasted garlic, gooey parmesan cheese, and a golden crispy topping, this dish is comfort food at its finest.

Perfect as a main dish or side, this homemade mac and cheese is better than anything from a box—it’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with cheesy goodness. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, holiday gathering, or a cozy night in, this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Super Creamy & Cheesy – Made with heavy cream, parmesan, and white cheddar.

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✔ Loaded with Garlic Flavor – Roasted garlic butter takes this mac and cheese to the next level!

✔ Crispy Parmesan Topping – A golden, crunchy finish for extra texture.

✔ Easy & Homemade – So much better than store-bought mac and cheese.

✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese:

12 oz elbow macaroni (or cavatappi, shells, or penne)
3 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
2 cups white cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

For the Crispy Topping:

½ cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp butter, melted
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
½ tsp garlic powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook 1 minute less than package directions (it will finish cooking in the sauce).
Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Parmesan Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly (this creates a roux).
Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring until smooth.
Add Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Gradually stir in white cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella, one handful at a time.
Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 4: Combine Pasta & Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated.
If serving stovetop mac and cheese, serve immediately.

Step 5: Make the Crispy Topping & Bake (Optional)

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan, and garlic powder.
Pour mac and cheese into a buttered baking dish and sprinkle the topping evenly over the top.
Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Garnish with chopped parsley or extra Parmesan.
Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy, garlicky goodness!

Recipe Variations & Add-Ins

🔹 Bacon Lover’s Mac: Add crispy crumbled bacon on top.

🔹 Spicy Kick: Stir in ½ tsp cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

🔹 Extra Cheesy: Mix in Gouda, Fontina, or Gruyère for more depth of flavor.

🔹 Garlic Herb Twist: Add roasted garlic instead of minced garlic for a richer taste.

🔹 Protein-Packed: Mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms.

Best Sides to Serve with Mac and Cheese

✔ Garlic Bread – Extra garlicky goodness!

✔ Steamed Broccoli – A great contrast to the rich cheese sauce.

✔ Crispy Chicken Tenders – A perfect pairing for a hearty meal.

✔ Caesar Salad – Adds a fresh and crunchy balance.

✔ Roasted Vegetables – Brussels sprouts or asparagus complement the flavors.

Storage & Reheating Tips

✔ Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

✔ Freeze for Later: Place in a freezer-safe dish and freeze for up to 2 months.

✔ Reheat Properly: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of milk, or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.

Why Everyone Loves This Mac and Cheese

✨ Ultra Creamy & Cheesy – The best homemade cheese sauce with rich garlic flavor.

✨ Crispy & Golden on Top – The buttery Parmesan breadcrumb topping adds the perfect crunch.

✨ Easy & Customizable – Simple to make and easy to adapt to your taste.

✨ Great for Any Occasion – Perfect for weeknight meals, holidays, or potlucks!

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese is cheesy, creamy, garlicky, and incredibly delicious. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a side, it’s a true comfort food favorite that will disappear fast!

So grab your pasta, cheese, and garlic, and make this irresistible mac and cheese today!