Best Classic Macaroni and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Baguette Topping
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/gas mark 6). Spread the baguette pieces on a baking sheet, drizzle with melted butter, and season to your preference. Bake for 6 minutes until they turn crisp, then set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta for 2 minutes less than the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Create the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and English mustard powder, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the plain flour.

Step 4: Incorporate the Milk
Cook the flour mixture for another minute, then gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth and free of lumps.

Step 5: Simmer and Thicken
Allow the sauce to simmer for 5 minutes, whisking continuously until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Mix Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, seasoning to taste. Transfer the mixture to a large ovenproof dish or portion it into four individual ramekins.

Step 7: Add Topping and Bake
Evenly distribute the crispy baguette pieces and the remaining Parmesan on top. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the dish is golden and bubbling. You can freeze it before baking—just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.