There’s nothing quite as comforting as Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese! This dish combines tender pasta with a rich, velvety cheese sauce, topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, holiday gathering, or as a side dish to your favorite proteins, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

With layers of creamy, cheesy goodness and a crunchy finish, this baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The cheese sauce is luscious and coats every piece of pasta perfectly.
• Golden, Crispy Topping: A breadcrumb topping adds the perfect crunch.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as a side dish or main course, it’s a hit at gatherings or weeknight dinners.
• Customizable: Easily swap the cheese or pasta to suit your taste!

What Does Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Taste Like?

This mac and cheese is the perfect blend of creamy and cheesy, with a hint of butter and spices for extra flavor. The pasta is tender but never mushy, and the golden breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch. Every bite is rich, decadent, and comforting.

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese:

• Elbow macaroni (12 oz, or substitute with cavatappi, shells, or penne)
• Butter (4 tablespoons)
• All-purpose flour (¼ cup)
• Whole milk (2 cups, warm)

• Heavy cream (1 cup, warm)
• Cream cheese (4 oz, softened)
• Sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded)
• Gruyère cheese (1 cup, shredded, optional for a nutty flavor)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Paprika (½ teaspoon, optional for color and flavor)

For the Topping:

• Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup)
• Butter (2 tablespoons, melted)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot (to boil the pasta).
• Medium saucepan (to make the cheese sauce).
• Whisk (for a smooth sauce).
• 9×13-inch baking dish (for assembling and baking).
• Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring).

How to Make Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. It should turn golden but not brown.
3. Gradually pour in the warm milk and cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until melted.
5. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Gruyère, stirring until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).

Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

1. Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
2. Transfer the mac and cheese to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 4: Add the Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and Parmesan cheese (if using).
2. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake the mac and cheese in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
2. For an extra crispy topping, broil the dish for 1-2 minutes at the end (watch carefully to avoid burning).

Step 6: Serve

Let the mac and cheese cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can be coated in anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
• Warm the Milk: Using warm milk helps create a smoother cheese sauce.
• Customize the Cheese Blend: Swap Gruyère for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or smoked Gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Make It Extra Creamy: Add an extra ½ cup of heavy cream for an ultra-rich sauce.

Variations

• Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a kick.
• Meaty Twist: Stir in cooked bacon, diced ham, or shredded chicken for a heartier dish.
• Veggie Mac: Add sautéed broccoli, spinach, or roasted mushrooms for a veggie-packed version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.

What to Serve with Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

This dish is a star on its own, but you can pair it with these sides for a complete meal:

• Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy cheese sauce.
• Grilled Chicken or Steak: Add protein to make it a filling main course.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Mac and cheese can be frozen before or after baking. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the mac and cheese, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before placing it in the oven.

What’s the best cheese for mac and cheese?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but combining it with Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack adds depth and creaminess.

Can I skip the breadcrumb topping?

Absolutely! If you prefer a softer, creamier mac and cheese, simply skip the topping and bake as directed.

How do I prevent my cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

Use low heat when melting the cheese and avoid overheating the sauce. Freshly grated cheese also melts smoother than pre-shredded.

Conclusion

There you have it—Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese, the ultimate comfort food that’s rich, cheesy, and full of flavor. Whether it’s for a family dinner, potluck, or holiday meal, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below or share your photos on Pinterest. And if you’re looking for more cozy recipes, check out my baked ziti or cheesy scalloped potatoes—you’ll love them too!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 23g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g

Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite of this classic baked mac and cheese—it’s comfort food at its best! 🧀🍝✨