Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

292cd374

This baked mac and cheese is ultra-creamy, rich, and topped with a golden layer of melty cheese or buttery breadcrumbs. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.

⏱ Prep Time

Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes (stovetop)
Bake: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour

🍽 Equipment Needed

Large pot (for pasta)
Medium saucepan (for cheese sauce)
Whisk
9×13-inch baking dish or similar
Measuring cups/spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula
Cheese grater (for best melt)

🧾 Ingredients

For the Pasta:

1 lb (16 oz) elbow macaroni or similar pasta
Salt (for boiling water)

For the Cheese Sauce:

4 tbsp unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk (warm)
1 cup heavy cream (or more milk)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
1 tsp mustard (Dijon or yellow, optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Cheese Blend:

3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Optional Topping:

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
OR 1 cup shredded cheese (for cheesy top)

📝 Ingredient Notes

Cheese: Freshly shredded melts best. Cheddar gives classic flavor; mozzarella adds creaminess.
Milk/Cream: Whole milk and cream make it extra rich. You can sub with 2% or all milk if needed.
Pasta: Elbows are classic, but shells or cavatappi work great too.

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta until just al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package).
Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce:

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes to form a roux (light golden).
Gradually whisk in warm milk and cream until smooth.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard (if using), salt, and pepper.
Simmer 3–5 minutes until thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in 2½ cups cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted.