Introduction
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying dish that combines tender pasta with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, baked to perfection. This dish is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent and warm. With the gooey melt-in-your-mouth cheese and crispy golden topping, this mac and cheese will surely become a favorite in your household!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
1 lb elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
For the Cheese Sauce:
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 tbsp butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp ground mustard powder (optional but adds depth)
1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Topping:
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp butter, melted
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Cook the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the flour and whisk constantly to form a smooth roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until slightly golden.
Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until smooth and melted.
Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
Make the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. If you prefer a darker top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes (keep an eye on it to avoid burning).
Serve: Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy goodness!
Description
This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, with a rich and velvety cheese sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. The combination of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan gives it a perfect balance of flavor and texture. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds the ideal crunch to contrast with the creamy interior. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to impress!
Tips
Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for added flavor complexity.
Make-Ahead: This mac and cheese can be made in advance! Prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed.
Creaminess: For an extra creamy version, add more cream or a splash of sour cream to the sauce.
Add-ins: Mix in cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or sautéed spinach for a twist on the classic recipe.
Variations
Buffalo Mac and Cheese: Stir in some buffalo sauce and cooked chicken for a spicy, hearty version.
Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and add in some sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish gluten-free.
Corrections
Ensure you are using whole milk and heavy cream for the smoothest, richest cheese sauce. Substituting with lower-fat milk can result in a less creamy texture.
Don’t skip the step of whisking the roux (flour and butter mixture) well. If the roux isn’t cooked long enough, the sauce may taste floury.
Enjoy!
Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy your delicious homemade Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese! This dish is sure to bring warmth and joy to your meal and is perfect for sharing with loved ones.