Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese – Extra Cheesy & Irresistible!

Hi friend! Let’s be honest—sometimes, you just need a big bowl of mac and cheese to make the world feel right again. This recipe is everything I love about comfort food: creamy, golden, and loaded with gooey cheese. It’s baked until bubbly and topped with a slightly crispy crust that makes each bite feel like a little hug. Whenever I serve this at family dinners or potlucks, it’s the first dish to disappear. Honestly, it’s irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Mac & Cheese

I’m a firm believer that mac and cheese deserves a spot at every table—from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. What makes this version special is the silky cheese sauce that coats every piece of pasta. No dry noodles here! Plus, baking it gives that gorgeous golden crust on top, so you get the best of both worlds: creamy inside and crispy outside.

Nutritional Benefits

Sure, mac and cheese is indulgent, but there are a few hidden perks too! The pasta gives you energy-boosting carbs, while the cheese provides calcium and protein. If you want to sneak in a little extra nutrition, you can even add veggies like spinach, broccoli, or peas—they blend beautifully with all that creamy cheese.

Adaptable Variations

• Veggie Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted butternut squash before baking.
• Meaty Twist: Add cooked bacon, ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken for a heartier dish.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or top with jalapeños for some heat.
• Different Cheeses: Try mixing cheddar with Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a little Parmesan for a complex, cheesy flavor.

The Recipe: Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for flavor depth)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
4. Slowly whisk in milk, stirring until smooth. Add mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer until sauce thickens, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 3 cups cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted.
6. Combine the cooked pasta with cheese sauce and pour into the baking dish.
7. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Practical & Valuable Tips

• Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded—it melts smoother and creamier.
• If you like extra crunch, mix the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling.
• Mac and cheese can be made ahead—just assemble, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
• Leftovers? They reheat beautifully with a splash of milk to bring back creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze baked mac and cheese? Yes! Let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
2. What pasta works best? Elbow macaroni is classic, but shells or cavatappi hold the sauce even better.
3. How do I make it creamier? Add an extra splash of cream or milk to the sauce, or stir in a little cream cheese.
4. Can I make it gluten-free? Absolutely—just use gluten-free pasta and flour for the roux.

Final Thoughts

This creamy baked mac and cheese is everything you want in comfort food—cheesy, golden, and so satisfying. It’s perfect for family gatherings, cozy weeknights, or anytime you need a little food hug. Try it out, pin it on Pinterest, and share with friends who love cheesy goodness as much as you do. Trust me, once you make this version, boxed mac and cheese won’t stand a chance!