The Best Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe with Ritz Cracker Topping

Nothing says comfort food quite like a bubbling dish of baked mac and cheese. The combination of tender pasta, rich, creamy cheese sauce, and a golden, crunchy topping makes it an all-time favorite. This recipe elevates the classic by incorporating a buttery Ritz cracker crust, adding a delicious contrast to the smooth and cheesy interior.

Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, a potluck with friends, or simply a cozy night at home, this dish is sure to impress. The balance of flavors, from the sharp cheddar to the subtle hints of Dijon and garlic, creates a depth that is both nostalgic and indulgent. Every bite is a comforting hug, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your table.

This baked mac and cheese is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your tastes, making it as gourmet or as simple as you like. Plus, the crunchy, buttery topping ensures that every spoonful has the perfect textural contrast, making it an unforgettable dish every time you serve it.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Ritz Cracker Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)
• 4 tbsp melted butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make It

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

2. Make the Roux: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden brown and has a slightly nutty aroma. This step removes the raw flour taste and helps thicken the sauce.

3. Add the Dairy: Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Season and Melt the Cheese: Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat every piece of pasta evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it.

6. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and have a slightly crumbly texture.

7. Assemble and Bake: Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.

8. Let it Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese sauce to thicken slightly, ensuring every bite is perfectly creamy and delicious.

Tips & Tricks

• Use High-Quality Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged shreds.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: It will continue cooking in the oven, so keep it slightly firm.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños for a little heat.
• Storage: Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk for creaminess.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the dish ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Variations

• Protein Boost: Stir in cooked bacon, chicken, or lobster for a gourmet twist.
• Veggie Add-Ins: Try roasted broccoli, caramelized onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use GF pasta and substitute flour with cornstarch.
• Extra Cheese Lovers: Swap in Gruyère, gouda, or pepper jack for a fun flavor twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Ultra creamy, cheesy, and rich
✔️ Buttery, crispy Ritz topping adds the perfect crunch
✔️ Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
✔️ Easy to make ahead for holidays and gatherings