Few dishes scream “comfort food” like Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese. This dish is nostalgic and heartwarming, returning to cozy family dinners, late-night snacks, or festive holiday gatherings. What makes this mac and cheese recipe so unique? It’s all in the creamy, velvety cheese sauce that coats every piece of pasta, combined with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping that brings a satisfying texture to every bite.
Mac and cheese is a universally loved dish, whether served as a main course or a side dish. But baking it to perfection elevates it. The magic happens when you finish the classic stovetop version in the oven to achieve that baked, bubbly, golden layer. This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese will become your household’s favorite.
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
A rich, creamy, and decadent baked mac and cheese perfect for a comforting dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish.
Ingredients:
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your choice)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 560 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultra Creamy: The combination of cheddar and mozzarella creates a lusciously smooth and rich cheese sauce that perfectly coats every bite of macaroni.
- Perfectly Baked: The golden, crunchy topping made with panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese contrasts beautifully with the creamy mac and cheese underneath.
- Comfort Food Classic: This baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort dish, perfect for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying.
- Customizable: To make it your own, you can add different cheeses or mix-ins like bacon, caramelized onions, or even veggies like broccoli.
- Kid-Friendly: This recipe is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it an excellent option for family meals or potlucks.
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Elbow Macaroni: Traditional mac and cheese uses elbow macaroni, but you can swap it out for another pasta shape, such as shells, penne, or rigatoni.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is ideal for its bold flavor, but you can use mild cheddar if you prefer a more mellow taste. Feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère, Fontina, or even cream cheese for an extra layer of creaminess.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully and adds a stretchy, gooey texture. Monterey Jack or Colby cheese works as great substitutes if you’re out of mozzarella.
- Heavy Cream: The heavy cream adds extra richness to the cheese sauce. If you want to lighten it up, you can use half-and-half or just more milk, but the texture may be slightly less creamy.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give the topping a light and crispy texture. If you don’t have panko, you can also use regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
- Butter and Flour (for Roux): These two ingredients are essential for thickening the cheese sauce. If you’re gluten-free, you can substitute the flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour.
How to Make Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil your pasta in salted water until it reaches an al dente texture. This ensures that the pasta remains firm during baking, as it will continue to absorb moisture from the cheese sauce. Drain and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
The secret to the best mac and cheese is the roux-based cheese sauce. Melt the butter and whisk in the flour, cooking for a few minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly add the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until thickened. Add your seasonings and shredded cheeses to create a smooth, velvety sauce.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Once your cheese sauce is ready, fold in the cooked macaroni, ensuring each piece is generously coated in sauce. The creaminess should be noticeable even before baking.
Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping
Mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese for a crunchy topping. The topping adds the perfect textural contrast to the creamy pasta underneath.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake the mac and cheese in a preheated oven until the top is golden and crispy. If you love extra crispiness, broil it for a few minutes at the end.
Step 6: Serve Hot and Enjoy!
Let the baked mac and cheese cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if you’d like, and enjoy this comfort food at its finest.
Expert Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure to cook your pasta al dente. It will continue to cook while baking in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and only hold up well in the dish.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your sauce. For the best results, grate your cheese fresh—it melts better and gives a smoother sauce.
- Customize Your Cheese Blend: Mix and match cheeses for different flavours. Add Gruyère for a nutty note or some blue cheese for extra tang.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the mac and cheese in advance, covering it and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: If you love a crunchy top, broil the mac and cheese for the last few minutes. Just be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Variations and Customizations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour to make this dish gluten-free.
- Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
- Add Protein: Add cooked bacon, diced ham, or shredded chicken to the mac and cheese for a heartier version.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in cooked broccoli, spinach, or roasted vegetables to add nutritional value.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the mac and cheese in a covered baking dish for 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave, but the oven method will help retain the crisp topping.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve it alongside roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a balanced meal.
- Grilled Chicken: Pair it with simple grilled chicken breasts or thighs for a protein boost.
- Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the mac and cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use shells, penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you prefer.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour in the Roux with a gluten-free flour blend.
Q: How can I make this dish lighter?
A: You can substitute some heavy cream with more milk or use low-fat cheeses, but the dish will be slightly less creamy.
Q: Can I freeze baked mac and cheese?
A: Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover it well with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Related Recipes
- Classic Stovetop Mac and Cheese: This is a quicker version of mac and cheese that doesn’t require baking, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Loaded Baked Potato Mac and Cheese: A fun twist incorporating all the flavors of a loaded baked potato—cheese, bacon, and chives.
- Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: A spicy and tangy variation with buffalo sauce and shredded chicken for a bold flavor punch.
Conclusion
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort dish that never fails to impress. Whether serving it as a side for a holiday dinner, for a family gathering, or just craving something warm and cheesy, this recipe will become a favourite. It’s creamy, cheesy, crispy, and customizable to your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why it’s a timeless classic everyone loves!
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
For the Mac and Cheese
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your choice)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp mustard powde
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
For the Topping
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Pasta:Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the flour and whisk constantly to create a roux (a thick paste). Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep cooking until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir well. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix until the pasta is thoroughly coated with the sauce.
- Transfer to Baking Dish:Pour the macaroni and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare the Topping:In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese.Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake:Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.Optional: Broil for the last 2-3 minutes for an extra crispy top.
- Serve:Remove the baked mac and cheese from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- If you like your mac and cheese extra creamy, you can add an additional ½ cup of cheese to the sauce.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, and remember that cheese can add salt, so taste the sauce before adding more salt.
- The cayenne pepper adds a subtle heat to balance the richness of the cheese. You can omit it if you prefer a milder dish.