Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe (with Video)

1. Preheat oven to 350F (conventional).
2. Mix the topping ingredients (except mozzarella) and set aside.
3. Boil the macaroni in 1 tsp olive oil following box instructions but reduce cooking time by 1-2 min so it is extra al dente. Strain and set aside.
4. Mix the three kinds of cheeses in a bowl and set aside.
5. Melt a butter in a nonstick pan at medium heat. Add flour and mix until it becomes golden and fragrant. Add the milk, cream, cream cheese and seasoning. Mix and cook until the mix thickens to a roux. Turn off the heat.
6. Add 2 cups of the mixed cheeses and the macaroni. Mix until combined (it’s ok to have some unmelted cheese).
7. Transfer to a cast iron skillet and cover with the remaining 1 cup cheese mix, 1/2 cup mozzarella and the topping we made earlier.
8. Bake for 15 min, and then change the oven setting to broil and bake for another 5 min until the top becomes deep golden and crispy.
9. Serve while still hot & enjoy!