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If you have a soft spot for all things cheesy and comforting, this Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is about to become your new staple. It strikes the perfect balance between a rich, velvety cheese sauce and that irresistible golden crust that forms during baking. Every spoonful offers a warm hug of cheddar goodness coupled with the tender bite of perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, this recipe will make you feel right at home, filling your kitchen with an inviting, mouthwatering aroma that beckons everyone to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this dreamy Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe, you only need a handful of simple ingredients—each one playing a vital role in taste, texture, and that classic savory color. These basic kitchen staples come together effortlessly to build a sauce that’s rich, smooth, and absolutely crave-worthy.
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni: The quintessential pasta shape for trapping creamy cheese sauce on every bite.
- 1/3 cup butter: Adds a luscious richness and forms the foundation of our roux.
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour: Essential for creating a thick, velvety sauce by cooking it with butter.
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper: Offers gentle heat without speckles visible in the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances every other flavor thoughtfully without overpowering.
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Just a hint for a subtle kick that balances the creamy richness.
- 3 1/2 cups 2% milk: The perfect creaminess level that keeps the sauce smooth and light.
- 8 ounces medium cheddar cheese, shredded: Brings mild sharpness and beautifully melts into the sauce.
- 8 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Provides depth and bold flavor that gives this dish its signature punch.
How to Make Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the elbow macaroni exactly according to the package instructions until it is tender but still has a nice bite. Drain the pasta well and set it aside because it’s the blank canvas ready to soak up all that luscious cheese sauce.
Step 2: Make the Roux
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour along with white pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Keep stirring steadily for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and form a smooth, golden roux that will thicken the sauce beautifully.
Step 3: Create the Cheese Sauce
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent any lumps. Continue to cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon perfectly. Lower the heat and stir in both shredded medium and extra sharp cheddar cheeses, letting them melt fully into a silky, flavorful sauce that’s the heart of this Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Gently mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, making sure every piece is lovingly coated. This step ensures you get that harmonious cheesy flavor in every forkful, not just a few patches here and there.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the top turns delightfully golden and bubbles with cheesy goodness. Let it rest for a few minutes after baking so the sauce thickens slightly, making every serving spoonful irresistibly creamy.
How to Serve Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor contrast to the rich cheese. A light dusting of paprika or a few crispy fried breadcrumbs can add beautiful texture and a visually inviting finish that makes each plate look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even tangy coleslaw. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or smoky barbecued ribs to balance the creamy richness with bold meaty flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special twist, try serving this mac and cheese in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and breadcrumbs before baking. You can also mix in cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms for added layers of flavor. Making it a casserole centerpiece with colorful roasted veggies on the side is sure to wow family and friends alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days, maintaining most of that luscious cheesiness you love.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, too! Place cooled mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to ensure it warms evenly.
Reheating
For the best results when reheating your mac and cheese leftovers, cover the container with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through. Stirring halfway helps redistribute the creamy sauce for that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional and perfect for trapping sauce, you can use other short pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne. Just keep cooking times in mind to ensure the pasta stays tender but firm.
Is it possible to make this without baking it?
You can skip the baking step and enjoy a stovetop mac and cheese version, but baking adds that wonderful golden crust and slightly caramelized flavor that transforms the dish into something truly special.
Can I substitute the milk with a dairy-free alternative?
Yes, you can use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk, but be aware the sauce consistency and flavor might differ slightly. Make sure to choose a variety that works well for cooking and has a neutral taste.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you love heat, feel free to increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of smoked paprika or even some diced jalapeños. Just add gradually and taste as you go to keep it balanced with the creamy cheese.
What’s the best cheese to use if I want a different flavor profile?
Try swapping in gouda, gruyere, or fontina for a nutty and smooth twist, or add a little parmesan for a sharp finish. Combining cheeses is a great way to customize the flavor while keeping that irresistible creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe feels like a warm embrace on a plate, perfect for sharing or indulging solo when you need some serious comfort food magic. The combination of simple ingredients elevated by just a bit of technique makes it a timeless favorite that’s easy to love and hard to forget. So go ahead, stir up a batch, and treat yourself to one of the most satisfying homemade dishes you’ll ever make.
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Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipe delivers a rich and cheesy comfort food classic. Made with a blend of medium and extra sharp cheddar cheeses, a smooth roux-based cheese sauce, and baked until golden and bubbly, this dish is perfect as a hearty main or a delicious side.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 3 1/2 cups 2% milk
- 8 ounces medium cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the mac and cheese.
- Cook Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Make Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour, white pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir constantly to form a roux and cook for about 2 minutes, ensuring it does not brown.
- Add Milk: Gradually pour in the 2% milk while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Melt Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded medium and extra sharp cheddar cheeses until the sauce is smooth and the cheese has fully melted.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is well coated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the cheesy macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the baked mac and cheese sit for a few minutes to set before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.
- You can adjust seasoning levels according to your preference, adding more cayenne for extra heat.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- For a crispier top, sprinkle extra cheese or breadcrumbs before baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
