Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) Recipe

If you dream of a dinner truly worth gathering around the table for, this Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) is the perfect answer. It’s comfort food at its finest: silky, cheesy sauce enveloping tender pasta, all tucked beneath a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping. Every bite is packed with flavor and nostalgia, promising to conjure cozy memories and spark new cravings. Whether you’re serving it as the star of the show or an irresistible side, this creamy classic is destined to become your new go-to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) is that you probably already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen. Simple staples come together to transform into that rich, cheesy, and satisfying dish we all adore. Each ingredient plays a vital role—don’t be tempted to skip or skimp!

• Elbow macaroni (12 oz): Classic shape for trapping all that luscious cheese sauce, but you can swap with shells or rotini in a pinch.
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (3 cups): Gives the sauce its signature tangy richness and beautiful color.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Adds extra meltiness and a bit of that irresistible cheese pull.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): A salty, nutty boost that deepens the overall flavor.
• Unsalted butter (1/4 cup): The foundation of a creamy roux that binds the entire sauce together.
• All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): Helps thicken the cheese sauce until it’s perfectly velvety.
• Whole milk (3 cups): Brings richness and helps create a luxurious texture. Don’t substitute skim!
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for bringing out those cheesy flavors.
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): For just the right amount of warmth and gentle heat.
• Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Lends subtle smokiness and an appealing blush of color.
• Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): The secret to a satisfyingly crunchy, golden top layer.

How to Make Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy)

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Baking Dish

Set the mood by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) won’t stick and makes serving a breeze. Preparing your dish ahead also means you can smoothly transfer your cheesy pasta right from the pan to the oven.

Step 2: Cook the Elbow Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni just until al dente—about a minute less than the package instructions—so it stays perfectly tender through baking. Drain and set aside; the pasta will finish cooking as it soaks up the cheese sauce.

Step 3: Start the Roux

In a roomy saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s just sizzling. Sprinkle in the flour, whisking constantly for 1 to 2 minutes. You’ll see the mixture bubble and turn a pale, toasty gold—the start of a perfect, lump-free sauce.

Step 4: Whisk in the Milk and Seasonings

Gradually add the whole milk, whisking persistently to avoid clumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the back of your spoon, around 5 minutes. Toss in the salt, pepper, and paprika, and relish the aroma as it all comes together.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheeses

Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in 2 cups of the sharp cheddar, the mozzarella, and the Parmesan cheese until each bit is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and dreamy. At this point, you might want to sneak a spoonful—it’s just too good!

Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Gently fold your macaroni into the cheese sauce, making sure every piece is generously coated. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese across the top, then shower with panko breadcrumbs for a magical finishing touch.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Slide your masterpiece onto the center rack and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The top should be crisp and golden, with gloriously bubbling edges. Let your Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) cool for a few minutes to set the creamy layers before digging in.

How to Serve Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy)

Garnishes

A finishing flourish can make your Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) feel extra-special. Try freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Crumbled cooked bacon or a dash of smoked paprika also elevate each bite with savory depth.

Side Dishes

Pair this comforting dish with a vibrant green salad, garlicky sautéed greens, or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. If you’re feeding a hungry crowd, consider serving alongside fried chicken, BBQ ribs, or grilled sausages for a true feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For potlucks or parties, scoop the mac and cheese into individual ramekins for a fancy touch, or bake it in a cast iron skillet for rustic charm. You can even serve leftovers in muffin tins to create kid-friendly, handheld bites—perfect for picnics or lunchboxes!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld even more, making leftovers almost as delightful as the first serving.

Freezing

Want to savor this comfort food later? Simply cool the baked mac and cheese completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze before adding the breadcrumb topping, then add it right before reheating in the oven.

Reheating

To bring back that creamy texture, add a splash of milk before reheating leftovers in the oven (covered) at 350°F until hot. For single servings, the microwave works well—stir halfway and don’t forget that splash of milk for ultimate creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Mix and match cheeses like Gruyère, fontina, or Monterey Jack for new flavor spins on this Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy). Just keep the ratios the same for best results.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming grainy?

The secret is low, gentle heat. Remove the pot from the burner before adding the cheese, and stir until completely smooth. Using pre-shredded cheese can sometimes cause graininess due to additives, so freshly shred if possible.

Can I make this dish gluten free?

Yes, you can! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the roux. There are also gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to finish off the topping.

Is it possible to prepare Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) ahead of time?

It sure is. Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to one day. When ready, add the breadcrumb topping and bake as instructed, adding an extra 5 to 10 minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

What’s the best way to get a really crispy top?

For an extra crispy top, drizzle the panko with a bit of melted butter before baking or broil for the last 2 minutes, but watch carefully so it doesn’t burn!

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about sharing a bubbling dish of Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) with the people you love. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck, this recipe always delivers on taste and comfort. Don’t wait—grab those simple ingredients and bring a little extra joy to your table tonight!

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