Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese

Name: Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Satisfy your cravings with this Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese recipe, featuring a luscious blend of cheeses that melt into a velvety sauce, enveloping perfectly cooked pasta for a cozy meal that's hard to resist. Topped with a golden, buttery breadcrumb crust, this dish is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or a comforting weeknight treat that promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2025-12-02T09:25:21.897Z

This ultimate creamy baked mac & cheese has become a beloved staple in our kitchen. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it's sure to bring smiles to your table.

The Perfect Comfort Food

There's nothing quite like a warm, cheesy bowl of mac and cheese to lift your spirits. This Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese embodies the classic comfort food experience, providing a rich and satisfying meal that recalls childhood memories. The combination of sharp cheddar and gooey mozzarella creates a delightful flavor profile, while the creamy cheese sauce clings beautifully to every piece of pasta, ensuring that each bite is indulgently delicious.

Whether you're enjoying a quiet evening at home or hosting a family gathering, this mac and cheese recipe is sure to be a hit. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it offers the perfect balance of comfort and simplicity. Everyone loves mac and cheese, making it an ideal choice for both kids and adults alike.

Customization Options

One of the best things about this Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese is its versatility. While the recipe provides a solid base of flavors, you can easily adapt it to your personal taste. Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite herbs or spices to the cheese sauce. A pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add a new dimension to the dish, giving it a unique twist that's entirely your own.

You can also mix in cooked vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or roasted red peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Alternatively, consider stirring in cooked proteins, like crispy bacon or shredded chicken, to make this dish even heartier. This recipe serves as a blank canvas that allows your creativity to shine, making each batch a delightful adventure.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

This Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese is perfect for meal prep and can easily be made ahead of time. After assembling your dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply pop it in the oven when you're ready for a comforting meal. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without all the last-minute fuss.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the portion in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Enjoy your homemade mac and cheese all week long without sacrificing flavor!

Ingredients

Macaroni

8 ounces elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Breadcrumb Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Mix and match cheeses to your personal preference!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add the milk, stirring continuously until thickened.

Remove from heat and stir in the cheeses, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Combine Macaroni and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.

Prepare Breadcrumb Topping

In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.

Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cheese Selection

Choosing the right cheeses is crucial for achieving the ultimate creaminess in your mac and cheese. Sharp cheddar provides a rich, tangy flavor, while mozzarella adds meltiness and stretch. You might also consider incorporating other cheeses like Gruyère or fontina for a gourmet flair. Each addition brings its own unique characteristics, enhancing the overall flavor complexity of the dish.

For a bold twist, try using a blend of cheeses, such as pepper jack for a hint of spice or gouda for a smoky undertone. The key is to choose cheeses that melt well so you can enjoy a creamy, luscious sauce that coats every macaroni piece perfectly.

Bread Crumb Topping

The breadcrumb topping is a crucial element of baked mac and cheese, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta beneath. Using fresh breadcrumbs can enhance the texture and flavor, as they toast up nicely and offer a light, crispy bite. Mixing in melted butter and grated Parmesan adds richness that elevates this dish to next-level comfort food.

For added flavor, you can incorporate herbs like thyme or oregano into your breadcrumb mixture. Add a touch of garlic powder or even some crushed red pepper for an exciting kick. A well-seasoned breadcrumb topping not only enhances the dish aesthetically but also adds layers of flavor that will make your mac and cheese truly memorable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese and refrigerate it before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it's cold from the fridge.

→ What cheeses work best?

A mix of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyère provides a great flavor and texture.