Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the aroma of bubbling cheese fills the kitchen, you’re transported to a world where comfort food reigns supreme. My Super Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is a warm embrace on a plate, serving up nostalgia with every gooey bite. This recipe is the perfect balance of rich and creamy, making it a total crowd-pleaser—ideal for cozy family dinners or a gathering with friends. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, ensuring you can enjoy a homemade dinner without lengthy prep or stress. Whether you need a kid-friendly dish or a comforting meal that satisfies even the pickiest palettes, this baked mac and cheese has you covered. Ready to create a cheesy masterpiece that will have your loved ones asking for seconds? Let’s dive in! Why is this mac and cheese irresistible? Creamy Delight: The rich cheesy sauce envelops every macaroni piece, creating a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug. Kid-Friendly Flavor: Its amazing taste and gooey texture make it a hit with kids and adults alike, making mealtimes more enjoyable. Versatile Ingredients: Substitute gluten-free pasta or non-dairy options easily, ensuring everyone can savor this dish without compromise. Quick and Simple: Don’t spend hours in the kitchen; this recipe comes together in no time, leaving you more moments to enjoy with family. Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual family dinners or as a crowd-pleasing side at gatherings—it’s truly a comfort classic that never disappoints! Pair it with some Grilled Cheese Burrito for a memorable meal. Enjoy! Baked Mac And Cheese Ingredients • Get ready for cheesy goodness! For the Pasta Elbow Macaroni (1 lb) – The star of this dish; gluten-free pasta can be used for a delicious alternative. Salt – Elevates the pasta’s flavor during cooking; feel free to skip based on dietary needs. For the Cheese Sauce Unsalted Butter (3/4 cup) – Essential for creating a rich cheese sauce; dairy-free alternatives work well too. All-Purpose Flour (3/4 cup) – Helps thicken the sauce; substitute with gluten-free flour if needed. Whole Milk (3 cups) – Adds creaminess to the sauce; can be swapped with non-dairy milk for a dairy-free version. Heavy Whipping Cream (2 cups) – Boosts the sauce’s creaminess; non-dairy cream is a suitable alternative. Medium-Sharp Cheddar Cheese (3 cups) – Imparts a sharp flavor; freshly grated cheese ensures optimal melting. Raclette or Gruyère Cheese (3 cups) – Enhances richness and creaminess; mozzarella serves as a great replacement for a milder taste. Dry Mustard (1 teaspoon) – Adds a hint of depth to the flavor; omit if you prefer a simpler taste. Salt (1 ½ teaspoons) – Necessary seasoning for the cheese sauce; adjust according to your preference. Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon) – Offers a subtle kick; tweak to suit your palate. Paprika (1/4 teaspoon) – Evokes a touch of smokiness and color; this addition is purely optional. For the Topping Panko Breadcrumbs (2/3 cup, optional) – Provides a delightful crunchy texture on top; crushed crackers can also be used. Get ready to enjoy a comforting dish that defines classic indulgence with every spoonful of this baked mac and cheese! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Super Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). While it warms up, grease a 3-quart (9×13-inch) baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure your baked mac and cheese comes out easily. This step helps create that perfect golden crust we all adore. Step 2: Cook the Pasta In a large pot, boil water and add salt to enhance the pasta flavor. Add the elbow macaroni, cooking it for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest, ensuring it remains slightly firm. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to absorb the creamy goodness of the cheese sauce. Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture In a medium bowl, combine the shredded medium-sharp cheddar cheese and raclette or Gruyère cheese, mixing them well. Set this cheesy delight aside, letting the flavors meld as you focus on creating the rich cheese sauce that will coat your macaroni perfectly. Step 4: Make the Roux Return the empty pot to medium heat and melt the unsalted butter until frothy. Then, add the all-purpose flour, whisking continuously for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux until it turns a light golden brown. This roux forms the base of your creamy cheese sauce and adds depth to the Baked Mac And Cheese. Step 5: Create the Cheese Sauce Gradually whisk in half of the milk, ensuring there are no lumps, then stir in the remaining milk and heavy whipping cream. Add the dry mustard, salt, black pepper, and paprika, continuing to cook and stir until the mixture thickens and starts bubbling, about 5-7 minutes—this will create your luscious cheese sauce. Step 6: Melt the Cheese Remove the pot from the heat and stir in half of your cheese mixture until completely melted and creamy. The aroma will be irresistible at this point! If needed, return to low heat, stirring gently until everything is combined and looks velvety. Step 7: Combine the Pasta and Sauce Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until every piece is coated in that rich creaminess. Take a moment to appreciate the perfect blend of textures and flavors that is coming together in your Super Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese. Step 8: Layer the Dish Layer half of the macaroni mixture in the prepared baking dish, evenly spreading it out. Sprinkle some of the remaining cheese mixture on top before adding the rest of the macaroni. Finish by topping with the rest of the cheese mixture, ensuring every bite is a cheesy delight when baked. Step 9: Bake to Perfection Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 13-15 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden. For that ultimate finish, switch to broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to get that beautifully crispy layer—watch closely to avoid burning! Step 10: Serve and Enjoy Once baked, remove your delicious Baked Mac and Cheese from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This brief pause allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to scoop. Enjoy this cheesy comfort food with family and friends! Baked Mac And Cheese Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your tastes! Gluten-Free: Substitute elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta for a delicious alternative. It’s a simple swap that everyone will enjoy. Dairy-Free: Replace all dairy ingredients with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk and coconut cream. This way, everyone can indulge in creamy goodness. Packed with Veggies: Add steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach to boost nutrition. A touch of color and healthiness is always a win! Cheesy Mix: Try different cheese combinations like smoked Gouda or provolone for unexpected flavors. Each cheese brings a unique character, making your dish wonderfully versatile. Spicy Kick: Introduce a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat. It’s a delightful way to spice up your meal! Savory Additions: Fold in cooked bacon or ham for a savory twist that adds flavor and texture. This meaty addition takes comfort food to the next level. Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before baking for enhanced aroma. A little freshness can brighten up any dish. Crunchy Topping: Experiment with different breadcrumb toppings, such as crushed crackers or tortilla chips, to add extra texture. It’s a crunchy surprise on top of creamy perfection! And while you’re in the kitchen, don’t forget to check out these goodies like Baked Tofu New for another comforting dish or try some hearty Oven Baked Chicken on the side! Enjoy your culinary adventure! Expert Tips for Baked Mac And Cheese Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties, resulting in a creamier sauce. Avoid additives for the best flavor! Perfect Pasta Cook: Undercook your macaroni by 1-2 minutes. It will continue cooking in the oven, preventing a mushy texture in your baked mac and cheese. Roux Magic: Make sure your roux (flour and butter) is cooked to a light golden color to enhance the flavor and prevent a raw flour taste in your cheese sauce. Season Wisely: Taste your cheese sauce before adding salt. Cheese already has salt, so adjust accordingly to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. Layering for Flavor: When assembling your dish, layer cheese among the pasta, ensuring each bite is packed with cheesy goodness throughout and not just on top. Rest Before Serving: Allow your baked mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set, making slicing and serving more manageable without losing that creamy texture. What to Serve with Super Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Nothing elevates a comforting dish like the perfect complements to enrich your dining experience. Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, its crunchy texture and buttery flavor are ideal for mopping up all that cheesy goodness. Simple Side Salad: A fresh, vibrant salad adds a bright contrast, balancing the richness of the mac and cheese while providing a refreshing crunch. Roasted Vegetables: Tender, caramelized veggies such as broccoli or Brussels sprouts harmonize beautifully, adding a pop of color and nutrition. Coleslaw: This tangy, crunchy side brings a refreshing texture, perfectly cutting through the creamy richness of your baked mac and cheese. Crispy Fried Chicken: Juicy, herby chicken with a crispy coating makes for a delightful contrast, enriching the meal without stealing the spotlight. Mango Iced Tea: This refreshing drink complements the dish beautifully, quenching your thirst while adding a tropical flair to your dinner table. Let these delightful pairings transform your Super Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese into a memorable meal that your loved ones will cherish! Storage Tips for Baked Mac And Cheese Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps your baked mac and cheese fresh and ready for another cozy meal. Freezer: If you want to enjoy later, freeze it in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: To reheat, place the mac and cheese in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Add a splash of milk for extra creaminess if needed. Make-Ahead: Prepare your baked mac and cheese up to the baking stage, then refrigerate it. When ready to serve, allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. Make Ahead Options These Super Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese are a wonderful option for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance by preparing it through the layering process, then refrigerating it until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to cover it with foil to keep the moisture in and maintain that creamy texture. When it’s time to bake, allow the dish to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. This way, you’ll achieve that delightful golden crust and bubbly top—just as delicious as if it were made fresh! Enjoy the extra time you save! Super Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right pasta for baked mac and cheese? Absolutely! I recommend using elbow macaroni as it’s the classic choice, but you can also try other shapes like shells or cavatappi. If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, just opt for gluten-free pasta available in most stores. Look for pasta that is slightly firm when cooked, which holds up well in the baking process. How long can I store leftovers of baked mac and cheese? You can keep your baked mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for quick meals throughout the week! Just remember to let it cool down completely before sealing it up to preserve that creamy goodness. Can I freeze baked mac and cheese? Very much so! To freeze your baked mac and cheese, portion it into freezer-safe containers and it will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. For reheating, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes. For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk or cream before heating. What should I do if my cheese sauce is too thick? If you find that your cheese sauce is thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Just add a little more milk or cream, a couple of tablespoons at a time, while stirring gently. Heat it on low until it reaches your desired consistency. It’s all about that velvety texture that makes this dish so comforting! Is this recipe suitable for those with dairy allergies? Absolutely! To make your baked mac and cheese dairy-free, substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with your favorite non-dairy alternatives, such as almond milk or coconut cream. Use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast instead of regular cheese to achieve that creamy flavor. It’s important to check labels to ensure the products you choose are truly dairy-free. Can I make baked mac and cheese ahead of time? Yes, I often prepare it up to the baking stage, which is perfect for meal planning! Once assembled, cover the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven. This way, it cooks evenly, and you’ll still get that amazing creamy texture. Ultimate Baked Mac And Cheese for Comfort Food Lovers This Baked Mac And Cheese is a rich and creamy comfort food classic that's sure to please everyone. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 8 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta1 lb Elbow Macaroni Gluten-free pasta can be used as an alternative.1 tbsp Salt Enhances pasta flavor during cooking.For the Cheese Sauce3/4 cup Unsalted Butter Dairy-free alternatives work well too.3/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.3 cups Whole Milk Can be swapped with non-dairy milk.2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream Non-dairy cream is a suitable alternative.3 cups Medium-Sharp Cheddar Cheese Freshly grated cheese ensures optimal melting.3 cups Raclette or Gruyère Cheese Mozzarella serves as a great replacement.1 tsp Dry Mustard Omit if you prefer a simpler taste.1.5 tsp Salt Adjust according to your preference.1/4 tsp Black Pepper Tweak to suit your palate.1/4 tsp Paprika Optional for a touch of smokiness.For the Topping2/3 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Optional; crushed crackers can also be used. Equipment 3-quart baking dishlarge potMedium Bowlwhisk Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Super Creamy Baked Mac and CheesePreheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 3-quart baking dish.Boil water, add salt, and cook elbow macaroni 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.Combine shredded cheddar cheese and Gruyère cheese in a medium bowl; set aside.Melt butter in an empty pot over medium heat, add flour to form a roux, whisk until light golden brown.Gradually stir in half the milk, then add remaining milk and heavy cream; cook until thickens (5-7 mins).Remove from heat and stir in half of the cheese mixture until melted and creamy.Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until completely coated.Layer half of the macaroni mixture in the baking dish, sprinkle some cheese, then add the rest of the macaroni and cheese mixture.Bake in preheated oven for 13-15 minutes until bubbly and golden, then broil for 2-3 minutes for a crispy layer.Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 250mgIron: 1mg NotesAllow baked mac and cheese to cool before slicing for easier serving. Freshly grated cheese melts better for a creamier sauce. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
