Nothing beats the comforting allure of baked mac and cheese, with its creamy texture, gooey cheese pull, and golden crust. If you’re feeding a crowd or indulging in a cozy meal for one, this dish is the perfect go-to recipe when you need something both satisfying and simple.
With a rich and cheesy flavor, this classic casserole offers the kind of comfort that appeals to all ages.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This baked mac and cheese is a step above the rest. Unlike recipes that rely heavily on breadcrumbs, this version skips the traditional crust and focuses on a perfectly cheesy finish.
This ensures that every bite is creamy and decadent, with just the right amount of crispiness on top from melted cheese. It’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and comes together in a way that feels luxurious yet achievable.
The recipe also highlights pantry staples like pasta, butter, milk, and cheese, making it an excellent choice for last-minute meals. Plus, with a customizable ingredient list, you can tweak it to suit any occasion or dietary preference.
Tips for Perfectly Creamy Mac & Cheese
- Use a combination of cheeses: For the ultimate cheesy flavor, mix sharp cheddar and mozzarella. You can also swap in Gruyère or Parmesan for added depth.
- Cook pasta al dente: Overcooking the pasta can result in mushy mac and cheese. Drain it while it’s still slightly firm for the best results.
- Whisk the sauce continuously: When preparing the cheese sauce, make sure to whisk constantly to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth, velvety texture.
By keeping these simple tips in mind, you’ll achieve a creamy consistency that rivals any restaurant-style recipe.
Customization Ideas for Any Occasion
This baked mac and cheese recipe is endlessly versatile. Here are some easy ways to customize it to suit different needs:
- Add proteins: Stir in cooked chicken, bacon, or even lobster for a heartier dish.
- Vegetarian twist: Mix in roasted broccoli, spinach, or caramelized onions for added flavor and nutrition.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a kick.
Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or prepping for a holiday feast, this dish can be easily adapted to fit the mood and the menu.
Why Baked Mac & Cheese Is a Family Favorite
Mac and cheese recipes have a way of bringing people together. This baked version takes it to another level with its rich, creamy sauce and irresistible cheese pull.
Kids love the simplicity, while adults appreciate the nostalgic flavors and gourmet feel. It’s the kind of dish that disappears quickly at gatherings, leaving everyone asking for the recipe.
From weeknight dinners to potluck parties, baked mac and cheese is a foolproof option for any occasion. It’s easy, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Make It Ahead for Meal Prep Convenience
One of the best parts about this recipe is how well it lends itself to meal prep. You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
Reheating leftovers is a breeze, too. Simply pop a portion in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to keep it creamy. Alternatively, reheat it in the oven for a freshly baked taste.
Elevate Your Comfort Food Game with This Easy Recipe
When you’re craving something rich, cheesy, and satisfying, baked mac and cheese delivers every time. This recipe combines simple ingredients with easy techniques to create a dish that’s both indulgent and approachable.
Easy Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons (¾ stick) unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing
- 1 tablespoon plus ½ teaspoon fine sea salt divided, plus more as needed
- 1 pound elbow noodles
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- 1 tablespoon extra-light olive oil or other neutral oil
- 6 cups shredded medium cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder or 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper plus more to taste
Optional Variation:
- Substitute Gruyère cheese for mozzarella for a richer flavor.
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 3-quart or 9 x 13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding 1 tablespoon of salt. Cook the pasta according to package directions until it is al dente. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water. Once drained, toss the pasta with olive oil to keep it from clumping together.
- Mix the cheese: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Set aside about 8 cups of this cheese blend.
- Start the roux: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for approximately 2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture turns a light golden color.
- Create the cheese sauce: Gradually add the milk, heavy cream, and reserved pasta water to the roux, whisking continuously. Cook until the mixture becomes smooth and thickens slightly, about 3 minutes.
- Season the sauce: Stir in the paprika, mustard powder (or Dijon mustard), garlic powder, onion powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reaches a gravy-like consistency.
- Incorporate the cheese: Add 3 cups of the cheese mixture to the sauce and stir until fully melted. Repeat with another 3 cups of cheese, mixing thoroughly. Add the cooked pasta to the pot and fold it into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the macaroni and cheese into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of cheese over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted and bubbly. For a more golden crust, place the dish under the broiler for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
- Serve: Allow the baked mac and cheese to cool slightly for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy while warm.
Notes
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.