Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta with a rich, velvety cheese sauce baked to golden perfection.

This recipe creates a dish that’s creamy on the inside with a perfectly crispy, cheesy topping. It’s easy to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners, holidays, or any time you’re craving something indulgent and satisfying.

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Necessary Kitchen Equipment

Large pot (for boiling pasta)
Saucepan (for cheese sauce)
Whisk
9×13-inch baking dish
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula
Grater (for shredding cheese)

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

1 lb elbow macaroni (450 g)
1 tsp salt

For the Cheese Sauce:

4 tbsp unsalted butter (56 g)
4 tbsp all-purpose flour (30 g)
3 cups whole milk (720 ml)
1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (200 g), shredded
1 cup Gruyère cheese (100 g), shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese (100 g), shredded

For the Topping:

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (50 g)
2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
¼ cup Parmesan cheese (25 g), grated

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is golden and bubbly.
Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Reduce heat to low and gradually add the cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Assemble the Mac and Cheese:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is fully coated.
Transfer the mixture to 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 Parmesan cheese.
Sprinkle the topping evenly over the macaroni and cheese.

Bake:

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Recipe Tips

Cheese Choices: Use freshly shredded cheese for the creamiest sauce—pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly.
Pasta Variations: Substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne, shells, or cavatappi for a fun twist.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

What to Serve with Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or garlic bread. For a hearty meal, serve alongside fried chicken, barbecue ribs, or meatloaf.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! Try Monterey Jack, Fontina, or even pepper jack for added flavor.

2. How do I keep my mac and cheese creamy?
The combination of milk and cream, along with fresh cheese, ensures a rich and creamy consistency. Avoid overbaking to prevent drying out.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is a timeless classic that’s sure to become a family favorite. Dig in and enjoy every cheesy, golden bite!