Mac and cheese is a dish that brings people together. Whether you’re making it for a cozy winter dinner or a family gathering, this creamy, cheesy comfort food never fails to deliver. This baked mac and cheese recipe takes the classic dish to new heights, combining a rich, velvety cheese sauce with a perfectly baked crust of golden cheese. If you’re looking for a mac and cheese recipe that’s both indulgent and unforgettable, look no further.

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy baked mac and cheese is the perfect combination of creamy and crispy. The sauce is thick, rich, and perfectly cheesy, thanks to a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère. By baking it in the oven, you get a wonderful cheese crust on top that adds just the right amount of texture to every bite. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your personal tastes with different cheeses, toppings, or add-ins like crispy bacon. It’s the ultimate comfort food and a crowd-pleaser, ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb. elbow pasta
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups whole milk
2 1/2 cups half and half
4 cups medium sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
1/2 Tbsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp paprika

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just under al dente, about 1 minute less than the package instructions. Drain the pasta and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Shred the cheddar and Gruyère cheeses. Separate them into three piles: 3 cups for the sauce, 1 1/2 cups for layering in the middle, and 1 1/2 cups for the topping.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until it resembles wet sand.
Gradually add the half and half, continuing to whisk until smooth. Then, add the milk and whisk until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Remove the sauce from the heat. Stir in the spices and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese until smooth. Add another 1 1/2 cups of cheese and stir until creamy and well combined.
In a large bowl, mix the drained pasta with the creamy cheese sauce. Pour half of the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Layer with 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese, then top with the remaining pasta mixture.
Finish by adding the final 1 1/2 cups of cheese on top. Bake for 15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Let the mac and cheese cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Cheese Choices: While this recipe uses sharp cheddar and Gruyère, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or colby for a unique flavor profile.
Bacon: Add crispy bacon crumbles either in the sauce or as a topping for an extra layer of flavor.
Toppings: For a crunchy topping, try adding panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers, mixed with melted butter for an irresistible crunch.
Stovetop Option: If you’re not in the mood for baking, you can prepare the mac and cheese on the stovetop. Simply cook the pasta al dente, mix it with the cheese sauce, and serve immediately.

Storage/Reheating

Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of milk to the mac and cheese and heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently to ensure it stays creamy.

FAQs

How can I make this mac and cheese spicier?

If you love a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.

Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can easily substitute the elbow pasta with gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package.

Can I prepare this mac and cheese in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese up until the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it according to the directions.

How do I make the cheese sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker cheese sauce, cook it a little longer until it reaches your desired consistency, or use a bit more flour to create a thicker roux.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

It’s best to shred the cheese yourself, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the sauce.

Can I freeze leftover mac and cheese?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Reheat by baking directly from the freezer, adding a little milk if necessary.

What’s the best way to reheat mac and cheese without it getting dry?

Add a little milk or cream before reheating to maintain the creamy texture. Stir frequently while reheating to ensure even warmth.

Can I add vegetables to this mac and cheese?

Absolutely! Broccoli, spinach, or peas are great additions. Just make sure to cook them before mixing them into the pasta and cheese sauce.

What if I don’t have half and half?

If you don’t have half and half, you can substitute it with equal parts whole milk and heavy cream.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any short pasta shape like penne or shells for a different twist on this dish.

Conclusion

This creamy baked mac and cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining a rich cheese sauce with perfectly cooked pasta and a golden, cheesy crust. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Easy to make, customizable, and absolutely delicious, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the cheesy goodness!