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Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese The Best Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

This creamy baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food: golden on top, gooey in the middle, and full of cheesy flavor. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a cozy Sunday dish, it's sure to become a go-to favorite.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Casserole, Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 620
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Mac and Cheese
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni or other small pasta
  • 4 cups sharp Cheddar cheese shredded, or mix with Gruyère or Monterey Jack
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard optional
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder or 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs or panko optional topping

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13‑inch baking dish.
  2. Cook pasta in boiling salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Add mustard and garlic, if using. Cook until thickened.
  5. Lower heat and stir in 3 cups of shredded cheese. Mix until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Combine cheese sauce with drained pasta, stirring until fully coated.
  7. Transfer to baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and optional breadcrumbs. Dot with butter if desired.
  8. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra crispiness.
  9. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Customize by adding bacon, broccoli, or smoked paprika. You can also make ahead and freeze before baking.