Creamy Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, with creamy, melty cheese perfectly coating al dente pasta, all topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer. This creamy homemade baked mac and cheese recipe is guaranteed to become your new favorite dish, whether for family dinners, holidays, or any occasion when you crave something rich, cheesy, and comforting. If you’re ready for an indulgent treat, let’s dive into this simple, yet spectacular recipe that will elevate your mac and cheese game!

Ingredients for Creamy Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese:

• 16 oz elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping)

How to Make Creamy Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese:

1. Cook the Macaroni:

To begin, boil a large pot of salted water. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add your elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer). Cook according to the package directions, aiming for al dente texture. Once done, drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water if needed for later use.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce:

In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a smooth paste, commonly known as a roux. Allow the roux to cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the flour taste. Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid any lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, for about 4-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

3. Add the Cheese:

Reduce the heat to low, and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. At this stage, if you enjoy a slight tang, add 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard—it’s optional but adds a lovely depth of flavor. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to season. Stir everything together until the cheese has completely melted, creating a smooth, creamy cheese sauce that envelops the milk and cream.

4. Combine with Pasta:

Now, add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy mixture. At this point, the macaroni should be swimming in a rich, velvety sauce that promises every bite to be heavenly.

5. Prepare the Topping:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the cheesy macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle this buttery breadcrumb mixture over the top of the mac and cheese to create that irresistible crunchy topping.

6. Bake to Perfection:

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. The cheesy interior will remain creamy and indulgent, while the breadcrumbs add that satisfying texture contrast.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Once out of the oven, let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. The creamy, cheesy texture will melt in your mouth, while the crispy topping adds the perfect crunch. It’s comfort food at its finest!

Why This Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe is a Must-Try

There’s no denying the allure of a creamy baked mac and cheese. It’s the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves cheese. The combination of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a complex yet comforting flavor profile that elevates the classic mac and cheese dish. And let’s not forget that crispy breadcrumb topping! The secret to a perfect mac and cheese is balancing rich creaminess with texture, and this recipe nails it perfectly.

Mac and Cheese Variations and Additions

While this creamy homemade baked mac and cheese is delicious on its own, feel free to get creative with additional flavors and ingredients. Some variations you can consider:

• Add bacon or sausage for a savory twist.
• Mix in vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli to make it more colorful and nutritious.
• For a spicier version, you can throw in some jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Roasted garlic or caramelized onions will add a more complex flavor profile.

Experiment with different cheese combinations, add-ins, and toppings to customize your mac and cheese to your liking!

Common FAQs about Creamy Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to use any pasta you love, such as penne, rigatoni, or even cavatappi. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the mac and cheese and assemble it in the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.

Q3: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this baked mac and cheese gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

Q4: Can I freeze baked mac and cheese?
Yes! If you have leftovers, freeze the baked mac and cheese after it has cooled. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw and reheat in the oven.

Q5: What can I serve with baked mac and cheese?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a fresh green salad. For extra indulgence, serve it alongside crispy fried chicken or BBQ ribs!

Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Food

This creamy homemade baked mac and cheese recipe brings all the indulgence and flavor that mac and cheese lovers crave. With its rich, velvety cheese sauce, tender macaroni, and crispy topping, this dish will surely become a favorite at your dinner table. The best part? It’s simple to make and can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re serving it on a cozy night in or bringing it to a family gathering, this mac and cheese will be a crowd-pleaser every time.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of this ultimate baked mac and cheese. Your taste buds will thank you!

Print