Name: Baked Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 6 Tbsp unsalted butter; 2/3 stick unsalted butter for greasing; 1 Tbsp fine sea salt; 1 lb elbow macaroni pasta (preferably high-quality Italian bronze-cut); 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (for adjusting the sauce consistency); 1 Tbsp extra-light olive oil (or other neutral oil for greasing); 6 cups shredded medium cheddar cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (to thicken the cheese sauce); 3 cups whole milk (creates a creamy texture); 1 cup heavy cream (adds richness to the dish); 1 tsp paprika (for a hint of smokiness); 1 tsp mustard powder (or 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard for added tang); 1 tsp garlic powder (for savory depth); 1/2 tsp onion powder (to enhance flavor); 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)

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The ultimate comfort food, Baked Mac and Cheese is a dish that brings warmth to any table and satisfaction to any appetite. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in, a potluck, or just because you’re craving something delicious, this Baked Mac and Cheese will not disappoint.

Why This Recipe Works

This Baked Mac and Cheese recipe stands out for its rich and creamy cheese sauce, made from a combination of medium cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. The use of high-quality Italian bronze-cut elbow macaroni ensures that the pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully, creating a perfect bite every time. The blend of spices, such as paprika and garlic powder, adds depth to the flavor, while the heavy cream and whole milk create a luscious base that’s oh-so-satisfying. Plus, with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top and a golden-brown crust, this dish is not only tasty but visually appealing as well.

What You’ll Gather

6 Tbsp unsalted butter – for richness and flavor.
2/3 stick plus more for greasing – to ensure the dish doesn’t stick.
1 Tbsp plus 1/2 tsp fine sea salt – to season the pasta and sauce.
1 lb elbow macaroni pasta – preferably a high-quality Italian bronze-cut pasta.
1/2 cup reserved pasta water – for adjusting the sauce consistency.
1 Tbsp extra-light olive oil – or other neutral oil for greasing.
6 cups shredded medium cheddar cheese – a classic choice for cheesy flavor.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – for that gooey stretch.
1/3 cup all-purpose flour – to thicken the cheese sauce.
3 cups whole milk – creates a creamy texture.
1 cup heavy cream – adds richness to the dish.
1 tsp paprika – for a hint of smokiness.
1 tsp mustard powder – or 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard for added tang.
1 tsp garlic powder – for savory depth.
1/2 tsp onion powder – to enhance flavor.
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper – adjust to taste.

Tools of the Trade

Large pot – for boiling the pasta.
9×13 inch baking dish – for baking the mac and cheese.
Whisk – for mixing the cheese sauce smoothly.
Wooden spoon – for stirring without scratching your cookware.
Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accuracy.

Build Baked Mac and Cheese Step by Step

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour, whisking continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help to thicken your cheese sauce.

Step 3: Add Dairy

Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble gently.

Step 4: Incorporate the Cheeses

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the medium cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, mixing until completely melted and smooth. Add the reserved pasta water, paprika, mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring well to ensure all the pasta is coated in that creamy goodness.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish with extra light olive oil or butter. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. For a golden topping, sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top if desired.

Step 7: Final Touch

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!

Season-by-Season Upgrades

Add Vegetables: Mix in some steamed broccoli or spinach for a pop of color and nutrition.
Protein Boost: Incorporate cooked chicken or bacon for added flavor and heartiness.
Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
Switch Cheeses: Experiment with gouda, pepper jack, or even blue cheese for a unique twist.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

To ensure your Baked Mac and Cheese turns out perfectly, here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

Lumpy Sauce: Whisk continuously when adding milk to avoid lumps.
Overcooked Pasta: Cook pasta until just al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven.
Dry Mac and Cheese: Make sure to reserve enough pasta water and add it to the sauce for the perfect creamy consistency.
Cheese Not Melting: Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged to ensure it melts smoothly.

Storage Pro Tips

If you have leftovers (though we doubt it!), here’s how to store your Baked Mac and Cheese:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Add a splash of milk when reheating in the oven to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the gluten-free pasta package. The cheese sauce will still work beautifully.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but the sauce may be less creamy.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

What can I serve with Baked Mac and Cheese?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Serve & Enjoy

Once your Baked Mac and Cheese is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set, making it easier to scoop. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, and watch everyone dive in for seconds. Enjoy each creamy, cheesy bite, and relish in the smiles it brings to your family and friends.

The satisfaction of a homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is unparalleled, and with this recipe, you’ll create a dish that’s not just about filling stomachs but also about making memories around the table. Happy cooking!

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Baked Mac and Cheese

This Baked Mac and Cheese is pure comfort! Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden crust, it's a dish everyone will love.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Baked Mac and Cheese:

6 Tbsp unsalted butter
2/3 stick unsalted butter for greasing
1 Tbsp fine sea salt
1 lb elbow macaroni pasta preferably high-quality Italian bronze-cut
1/2 cup reserved pasta water for adjusting the sauce consistency
1 Tbsp extra-light olive oil or other neutral oil for greasing
6 cups shredded medium cheddar cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/3 cup all-purpose flour to thicken the cheese sauce
3 cups whole milk creates a creamy texture
1 cup heavy cream adds richness to the dish
1 tsp paprika for a hint of smokiness
1 tsp mustard powder or 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard for added tang
1 tsp garlic powder for savory depth
1/2 tsp onion powder to enhance flavor
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper adjust to taste

Equipment

Large pot
9x13-inch Baking Dish
Whisk
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

Method

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour, whisking continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help to thicken your cheese sauce.
Step 3: Add Dairy
Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble gently.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cheeses
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the medium cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, mixing until completely melted and smooth. Add the reserved pasta water, paprika, mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring well to ensure all the pasta is coated in that creamy goodness.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish with extra light olive oil or butter. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. For a golden topping, sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top if desired.
Step 7: Final Touch
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!