Ultimate Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe – Creamy, Golden & Comforting!

When it comes to comfort food, nothing hits the spot quite like a warm, gooey bowl of homemade baked mac and cheese. This classic dish is loved across generations, bringing back memories of cozy family dinners and Sunday lunches. If you’re looking for the perfect mac and cheese recipe that’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden, crispy crust, you’ve come to the right place! In this recipe, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to make the ultimate cheesy baked mac and cheese that’s guaranteed to become your new favorite comfort food.

Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this decadent dish. Feel free to customize the cheeses or add your favorite toppings for extra crunch and flavor!

• 12 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (for a creamy melt and nutty flavor)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra stretchiness)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky kick)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (usually about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside. Do not overcook the pasta as it will continue cooking in the oven.
3. Make the cheese sauce (béchamel base): In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, until it turns light golden and fragrant (this removes the raw flour taste).
4. Add milk and cream: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk to prevent lumps. Increase the heat slightly and cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a creamy consistency (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Season and add cheese: Reduce heat to low and season the sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika, if using. Slowly add the shredded cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella cheeses, stirring regularly until melted and smooth. Your cheese sauce should be rich, creamy, and luscious.
6. Combine pasta and cheese sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat every piece of macaroni in cheesy goodness.
7. Prepare breadcrumb topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter until evenly coated. This will give your mac and cheese a golden, crunchy topping after baking.
8. Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesy pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumb mixture evenly on top to cover the surface.
9. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crisp, and the cheese sauce bubbles around the edges.
10. Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let the mac and cheese sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps it set slightly, making it easier to dish out.

Tips for the Best Baked Mac and Cheese

• Don’t overcook your pasta: Cook it al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven. Overcooked pasta will become mushy after baking.
• Use a combo of cheeses: Sharp cheddar provides classic flavor, Gruyère adds a creamy nuttiness, and mozzarella gives you that stretchy finish. Feel free to experiment with fontina, gouda, or parmesan for variation.
• Make it creamy, not gluey: Choose whole milk and cream rather than skim milk for a luscious sauce. The roux (flour + butter) is key to thickening the sauce without lumps.
• Customize toppings: Add crushed Ritz crackers, cornflakes, or crushed pretzels to your breadcrumb topping for extra texture and flavor.
• Enhance with extras: Stir in cooked bacon bits, caramelized onions, or steamed broccoli for a gourmet twist.
• Let it rest before serving: The mac and cheese will firm up as it cools slightly, making it easier to portion.
• Make-ahead tip: Prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Simply bake it when ready, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

FAQs About Baked Mac and Cheese

Can I use other pasta shapes?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to use shells, cavatappi, rotini, or penne. Choose a pasta that holds sauce well for the best results.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend or use cornstarch (about 2 tablespoons instead of 1/4 cup flour) to make the roux. Make sure your pasta and breadcrumbs are gluten-free as well.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based milk like oat or almond milk and vegan butter. Use vegan cheese shreds designed for melting, though the flavor and texture may slightly differ from traditional mac and cheese.

How do I store leftover mac and cheese?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

Can I freeze baked mac and cheese?

Yes! Cool the mac and cheese completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Why is my mac and cheese sauce grainy or clumpy?

This usually happens if the cheese is overheated or the roux wasn’t cooked properly. Make sure to melt the cheese over low heat and stir constantly. Whisk the flour and butter until smooth before adding milk gradually.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Definitely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce for some heat. Jalapeños or diced green chilies mixed into the cheese also add a spicy kick.

Final Thoughts

Baked mac and cheese is more than just a side dish – it’s a celebration of all things cozy and delicious. The creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and crispy golden topping come together to create a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, potluck, or just a special treat, this recipe delivers every time.

Remember, the magic lies in the cheese combination and the quality of your roux and sauce, so take your time to make a smooth, flavorful base. Once you nail this ultimate baked mac and cheese, you’ll want to make it over and over again.

Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and delight in a bowl of cheesy happiness — your taste buds will thank you!

Ready to try it?

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