Description
This Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food, loaded with rich sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan in a velvety homemade sauce. Perfect for holiday dinners, family meals, or make-ahead gatherings, it’s baked to bubbly, golden perfection. A creamy mac and cheese casserole everyone will crave!
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground mustard or garlic powder (optional)
Extra cheese for topping
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth, lightly golden roux.
3. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream. Simmer 4-5 minutes until thickened. Reduce heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
4. Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly. Transfer to a greased 9×13 baking dish.
5. Sprinkle extra cheddar and parmesan over the top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly. Broil for 2-3 minutes for a crisp golden top.
6. Let cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to settle.
Notes
Shred your own cheese for best melt and texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents.
Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue to soften in the oven.
For an extra crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the cheese before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Pasta Bake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 90mg