Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

 

🧀 Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic

Few dishes deliver the warm, nostalgic comfort quite like Mac and Cheese. When it’s creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection, it transforms simple pasta into a soul-soothing meal that pleases kids and adults alike. This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese recipe is all about rich, velvety cheese sauce, tender pasta, and a crunchy, buttery topping that makes every bite irresistible.

Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side, this classic will quickly become a family favorite — perfect for cozy nights at home or holiday gatherings.

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🥄 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra creamy and cheesy thanks to a blend of cheeses and a smooth béchamel sauce

• Golden, crispy topping adds delightful texture contrast

• Easy to customize — add bacon, breadcrumbs, or your favorite cheeses

• Make ahead friendly — prepare in advance and bake before serving

• Crowd-pleaser — perfect for all ages and any occasion

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🧂 Ingredients

Makes about 6 servings:

• 12 oz elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)

• 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

• 4 tbsp butter

• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)

• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 2 tbsp butter, melted (for topping)

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Cook elbow macaroni until al dente according to package instructions.

• Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce (Béchamel)

• In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

• Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes until golden and bubbling.

• Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

• Cook until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

• Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

• Remove from heat and gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

3. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

• Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine.

4. Assemble in a Baking Dish

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Pour macaroni and cheese into a greased baking dish.

• Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over the top.

5. Bake

• Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

• Garnish with fresh parsley or extra shredded cheese if desired.

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💡 Tips for the Perfect Mac and Cheese

• Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor but feel free to blend with mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack.

• Don’t overcook pasta — al dente texture holds up best after baking.

• Add mix-ins like cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or roasted veggies for extra flair.

• Make ahead by assembling and refrigerating, then bake when ready.

• Use panko breadcrumbs for a light, crispy topping; mix with Parmesan for extra flavor.

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🧊 Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until warmed through.

• Freeze for up to 2 months — thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside green veggies like steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach.

• Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

• Great as a side for BBQ, fried chicken, or meatloaf.

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🎉 Final Thoughts

This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is comfort food at its finest — cheesy, creamy, and baked to perfection with a crispy topping that makes every bite unforgettable. Whether it’s a family dinner staple or your go-to dish for potlucks, this recipe is sure to become a classic in your kitchen.

So grab your cheese, boil that pasta, and get ready for a bowl full of pure, cheesy happiness.