Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food experience, nothing quite satisfies like Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese. This recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a bubbly, gooey casserole blanketed with golden, buttery crumbs. With layers of rich cheese sauce wrapped around tender macaroni, every bite is as cozy as a warm hug. Whether served as a crowd-pleasing side or the star of the dinner table, this dish is a guaranteed favorite for family dinners, potlucks, or just whenever you crave a touch of nostalgia.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese lies in its classic ingredients, each one playing a vital role in creating a harmony of flavors and textures. Quality cheese, fresh dairy, and a crunchy topping come together effortlessly. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Elbow macaroni: This classic shape has plenty of nooks for holding onto that luscious cheese sauce.
• Unsalted butter: Essential for making a silky roux and keeping the topping extra crisp and buttery.
• All-purpose flour: The secret to thickening your cheese sauce without lumps.
• Whole milk: Full-fat dairy delivers the familiar creamy base you want in every forkful.
• Heavy cream: Adds rich, velvety body to the sauce for ultra-decadence.
• Dijon mustard: Just a touch brightens the flavor and balances all that cheese.
• Salt: Pulls all the flavors together and brings out the best in your cheese.
• Black pepper: A little heat to complement the richness and add complexity.
• Garlic powder: A subtle depth that enhances rather than overpowers.
• Paprika: Adds gentle color and a hint of smoky sweetness.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: The star, giving that classic tangy, gooey texture and bold flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese: For unbeatable melt and stretch in every bite.
• Parmesan cheese: Aged nuttiness kicks up the flavor and browns perfectly on top.
• Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style crumbs stay super crisp after baking.
• Melted butter (for topping): Ensures your crumb topping bakes up golden and flavorful.
• Extra grated Parmesan (for topping): An extra punch of cheesy flavor and a beautifully caramelized finish.

How to Make Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously buttering a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures nothing sticks and makes for easy, picture-perfect servings. Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil, then cook your elbow macaroni until just al dente—remember, it will cook a bit more in the oven. Drain well and set it aside while you craft the sauce.

Step 2: Build the Roux

In the same pot (no need to dirty another!), melt your butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes. You’re looking for a light golden color and a toasty aroma—this base helps thicken your cheese sauce and prevents any floury aftertaste.

Step 3: Whisk in Dairy for the Sauce

Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking as you go. This keeps the sauce smooth and lump-free. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, about 4–5 minutes. You’re looking for a creamy texture that easily coats a spoon without being too thick.

Step 4: Season and Get Cheesy

Add the Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Whisk well. Now comes the best part: introduce the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until everything melts into a dreamy, velvety sauce worthy of your Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Pour the drained macaroni back into the pot with the sauce. Gently fold the pasta to coat every noodle in that luscious, cheesy goodness. No macaroni left behind!

Step 6: Assemble and Make the Topping

Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into your prepared baking dish. For the iconic crunchy finish, stir together panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and a bit more grated Parmesan in a small bowl. Sprinkle this evenly over the top—this step is what takes Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese from good to absolutely irresistible.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the sides are bubbly and the topping is gloriously golden brown. If you love an extra-crispy top, broil for the last 2–3 minutes, but watch closely! Let the casserole rest for about five minutes before serving so the sauce sets and every square comes out ultra-creamy.

How to Serve Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, sprinkle your Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with fresh chopped parsley or a dusting of extra grated Parmesan. Try a little smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick that makes each serving pop.

Side Dishes

This hearty casserole needs little more than a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted veggies like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, or even garlicky sautéed greens, make for bright and colorful pairings. It also works wonderfully alongside barbecue, grilled chicken, or your favorite vegetarian main.

Creative Ways to Present

Individual ramekins of Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese are adorable and perfect for dinner parties or family holidays. For potlucks or picnics, assemble everything in a disposable foil pan for easy transport. You can also scoop it into hollowed-out roasted squash halves or peppers for an impressive (and edible) serving vessel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese keeps beautifully in the fridge. Cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap, or transfer portions to airtight containers. It should stay fresh and delicious for up to four days—if you can resist snagging a forkful before then!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze your mac and cheese! Assemble (but don’t bake), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual. For best texture, add the breadcrumb topping just before baking so it stays crisp, not soggy.

Reheating

To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20–25 minutes. Add a splash of milk or cream before baking if it looks a little dry. For single servings, a microwave works in a pinch—just heat in short bursts and stir for even creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix it up with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a little blue cheese for bold flavor. Stick to cheeses that melt smoothly, and try to keep a good amount of sharp cheddar for that signature taste.

How do I make Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese gluten-free?

Swap the regular elbow macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the roux. Gluten-free panko or crushed rice crackers work as a topping substitute so everyone can enjoy a comforting plate.

What’s the secret to keeping mac and cheese creamy?

The combo of whole milk and heavy cream in this recipe is key. Also, avoid overbaking—pull it out when the cheese is bubbly and the topping is just golden. Adding just-cooked, not mushy, pasta helps prevent a dry casserole later on.

Can I add protein to make it a main course?

Definitely! Stir in cooked bacon, diced ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken just before adding the pasta to the cheese sauce. These additions turn your Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese into a hearty entrée for extra-hungry guests.

Can this recipe be prepped ahead?

You bet. Make everything up until the baking step and refrigerate (covered) for up to 24 hours. Let it sit at room temp while you preheat the oven, add your topping, then bake as directed for cheesy perfection with maximum convenience.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about a bubbling tray of Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese—creamy beneath, crispy on top, and totally irresistible. I hope this recipe brings a bit of that joy to your table, whether you’re sharing it with a crowd or digging in for some solo comfort. Give it a try and savor every cheesy, nostalgic bite!

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