Introduction: Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is a comforting, rich dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines tender macaroni pasta with a velvety smooth cheese sauce, then it’s baked to perfection with a golden, crispy top. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, this creamy delight is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
1 lb elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape of your choice)
4 tbsp butter
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
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
1 tbsp melted butter (optional for breadcrumb topping)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add the milk and cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Add the cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder (if using).
Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until the pasta is evenly coated.
Bake the mac and cheese: Pour the macaroni and cheese into the prepared baking dish. If desired, mix breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top of the macaroni. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Description:
This baked mac and cheese delivers the perfect balance of creamy and cheesy with a delightful crunch from the breadcrumb topping. The sauce is made from a combination of milk, cream, and three types of cheese for an indulgent, silky texture. The addition of a crisp, golden breadcrumb topping enhances the texture, making each bite satisfying.
Tips:
Use high-quality cheese: For the best flavor, choose a mix of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Freshly shredded cheese works better than pre-shredded for a smoother sauce.
Make ahead: You can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Creamier sauce: To make the sauce even creamier, add an extra 1/4 cup of heavy cream or swap some of the milk with sour cream.
Crust variation: For a different topping, use crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Variations:
Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or finely chopped jalapeños to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
Bacon Mac and Cheese: Fold in crumbled cooked bacon for added richness and a smoky flavor.
Veggie Mac and Cheese: Mix in steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
Corrections:
If you notice the sauce is too thick after adding the cheese, add a little more milk or cream to reach the desired consistency.
Ensure you cook the roux long enough to avoid a raw flour taste in the sauce.
Enjoy:
Serve your creamy baked mac and cheese hot, either as a main dish or a delicious side. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. Enjoy the creamy texture, the cheesy goodness, and that satisfying crispy topping!
