Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) Recipe
If you’re craving comfort food that wraps you in warm, cheesy goodness, this Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) is about to become your new favorite. It’s everything you love about classic mac and cheese, but baked to golden perfection with a crispy, buttery breadcrumb topping that adds the perfect crunch. Every bite is a dreamy blend of sharp cheddar, creamy mozzarella, and tangy Parmesan nestled in a rich, velvety sauce coating tender elbow macaroni. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is pure happiness on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) is simple, yet every item plays a crucial role in building the layers of texture, flavor, and that irresistible cheesy goodness. From sharp cheddar’s boldness to the creamy touch of milk and butter, each ingredient is essential to create the ultimate cheesy comfort.
- 12 oz elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that perfectly holds onto every bit of cheesy sauce.
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, robust flavor that shines through in every bite.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings creaminess and a lovely stretch that enhances the creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a subtle tang and depth to the overall cheese blend.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Creates a silky base for the roux, contributing richness without overpowering.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to that perfect luscious consistency.
- 3 cups whole milk: Smooths out the sauce and keeps it luxuriously creamy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without making anything overly salty.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that balances the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Introduces a subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Gives that satisfyingly crunchy, golden topping everyone loves.
How to Make Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy)
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente — tender but still holding its shape. Drain the pasta and set it aside so it’s ready to mingle with the luscious cheese sauce.
Step 2: Make the Roux and Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the all-purpose flour, whisking continuously, and cook it for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color. This step is crucial to cook out the raw flour flavor and prepare the base for your dreamy sauce. Gradually pour in the whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, and keep stirring until the mixture thickens—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Now, season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika to amplify its depth and warmth.
Step 3: Add the Cheeses
Remove your pan from the heat and immediately stir in 2 cups of sharp cheddar, the mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Watch as the cheeses melt into the warm sauce, forming a smooth, creamy, and incredibly cheesy mixture. This sauce is the heartbeat of your baked mac and cheese, so ensuring it’s silky and evenly mixed is key.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Pour the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce and gently stir until every piece is lovingly coated. Then transfer the cheesy pasta blend into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining sharp cheddar cheese on top, followed by an even layer of panko breadcrumbs. This topping will bake up to a golden, irresistible crust that provides a fantastic contrast to the creamy base.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and bubbling with cheesy goodness. Once out of the oven, let it cool just slightly before digging in—this allows the sauce to set a bit, making each serving perfectly creamy and comforting.
How to Serve Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy)
Garnishes
To elevate your Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy), consider sprinkling a little fresh chopped parsley or chives on top. These add a pop of color and a hint of freshness that beautifully cuts through the richness. If you like a bit of heat, a light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce transforms it into an exciting twist.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with vibrant sides that balance its richness. Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts or asparagus for contrast. For added protein, roasted chicken or crispy bacon elevates the meal while keeping the heartiness front and center.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the baked mac and cheese in individual ramekins or hollow out a loaf of crusty bread and fill it with this cheesy delight for a fun, shareable presentation. For a crowd-pleasing option, scoop it into mini muffin tins for perfectly portioned bites that everyone can enjoy as a finger food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) is easy to store in an airtight container and will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to preserve the texture and flavor for when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Freezing
If you want to save it for later, this dish freezes beautifully. After baking, allow it to cool, then portion out servings into freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Frozen baked mac and cheese can last for up to 2 months — perfect for quick, comforting meals anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm in a 350°F oven until heated through and bubbling again. Adding a sprinkle of fresh cheese or breadcrumbs on top before reheating revives that wonderful crispy, cheesy crust. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but the oven method ensures the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan create a perfect balance of creaminess and flavor, you can experiment with gouda, fontina, or even pepper jack to add your own twist to this Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy).
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening the sauce, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. The result will still be just as comforting and delicious.
How can I make this mac and cheese extra creamy?
For an even creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream to your milk mixture or stir in a dollop of cream cheese before mixing in the shredded cheeses. Cooking the pasta just shy of al dente also helps ensure it finishes cooking in the sauce without drying out.
Can I prepare the dish ahead of time and bake it later?
Definitely! Assemble the entire dish and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through evenly and the topping crisps up beautifully.
What can I add to make the dish more flavorful?
Try mixing in caramelized onions, cooked bacon, garlic powder, or a spoonful of Dijon mustard into the cheese sauce before combining with the pasta. These additions provide extra layers of flavor that elevate the classic Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy).
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like a warm casserole of this Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) to brighten your day and satisfy any cheese craving. Its perfect balance of creamy sauce, sharp cheesy flavor, and crunchy topping is comfort food at its finest. I encourage you to try this recipe and watch it become an instant classic in your home — it’s truly that good.
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Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (Cheesy & Creamy) Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and cheesy comfort food classic. Featuring a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses combined with a creamy béchamel sauce, topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs for the perfect crunchy finish. Perfect as a main dish or side, this baked mac and cheese is a delicious twist on the traditional stovetop version, guaranteed to satisfy cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Topping
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Remaining 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prepare the cheese sauce.
- Make the Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color, which removes the raw flour taste.
- Add Milk and Seasoning: Slowly whisk in the whole milk to avoid lumps. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika for flavor and color.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 2 cups of the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth, forming a creamy cheese sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until thoroughly coated. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese on top, followed by an even layer of panko breadcrumbs to add a crunchy topping after baking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Remove and let cool slightly before serving to set the cheese sauce.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, you can substitute half the whole milk with heavy cream.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be tossed with a tablespoon of melted butter for an even crispier topping.
- If you prefer a spicier mac and cheese, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- Use freshly grated cheeses rather than pre-shredded for the best melt and flavor.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if baking from cold.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Baking, Boiling, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: baked mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, cheesy pasta bake, comfort food, easy mac and cheese
