Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

If you’ve been hunting for the ultimate comfort food, look no further because this Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is absolutely fan-freaking-tastic. I love this recipe because it combines the perfect cheesy sauce with a luscious baked crust—trust me, once you try this, your idea of mac and cheese will never be the same. Whether you’re cooking for your family or bringing a dish to a potluck, this recipe always steals the show.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together to make magic in your kitchen. I always recommend using good-quality cheese and whole milk because they truly make all the difference in creating that creamy texture you want in a baked mac and cheese.

• Dried Macaroni: I like to pick elbow macaroni—it holds the sauce nicely without getting mushy.
• Egg: Helps thicken the sauce and makes it extra creamy when baked.
• Salted Butter: Adds richness and a buttery base to the roux.
• All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the sauce; whisk it well to avoid lumps.
• Whole Milk: You want full fat here for that luscious texture.
• Dry Mustard: This might surprise you, but it boosts the cheesy flavor wonderfully without overpowering.
• Cheese (Cheddar, Jack, Fontina): Use a mix for depth; sharp cheddar plus a mild melting cheese like fontina is my favorite combo.
• Kosher Salt and Seasoned Salt: Don’t skip these; they amp up the flavors perfectly.
• Ground Black Pepper: A little spice to balance the richness.
• Optional Seasonings (Cayenne, Paprika, Thyme): Sprinkling these in adds a subtle kick and earthiness—so fun to experiment.

Variations

I love how flexible this creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipe is. You can easily tailor it for different tastes or dietary needs, so don’t be shy—make it your own!

• Add Protein: I’ve stirred in cooked bacon or shredded rotisserie chicken for a heartier meal that wins every time.
• Vegetarian Boost: Mixing in steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms adds color and nutrition without losing creaminess.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use a plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese for a lighter twist; though the texture will vary, it’s still delicious.
• Spice It Up: Try adding smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky heat that pairs beautifully with the melty cheese.

How to Make Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook Your Macaroni Perfectly Firm

This step is key—cook the macaroni until it’s very firm, almost underdone, because it will continue cooking in the oven. I usually set my timer for a minute or two less than the package suggests, then taste to make sure it’s still got a nice bite. Drain it well so the sauce doesn’t get too watery.

Step 2: Whisk Together a Silky Roux Sauce

In a large pot, melt the salted butter over medium-low heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about 5 minutes—this cooks out the raw flour taste and thickens the sauce perfectly. Keep your whisk moving to avoid burning; it should be smooth and bubbly but not browned. Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking continuously, add the dry mustard, and keep stirring until your sauce turns thick and creamy—about another 5 minutes.

Step 3: Temper the Egg for Creaminess

In a small bowl, beat the egg. Here’s the trick I discovered: take about 1/4 cup of your hot sauce and slowly whisk it into the beaten egg to raise its temperature gently—that way, the egg won’t scramble when you add it back to the sauce. Then pour the egg mixture back into the pot, whisking constantly to keep it silky smooth.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheese and Season Well

Add your grated cheese little by little, stirring until completely melted and creamy. This is the moment when the sauce really blossoms with flavor. Don’t rush; let the cheese melt slowly so the texture stays luscious. Then, add kosher salt, seasoned salt, black pepper, and any optional seasonings like cayenne or paprika. Taste and adjust seasoning—you don’t want bland mac and cheese! I always remind myself: don’t be shy with the salt here.

Step 5: Combine, Bake, and Enjoy!

Stir the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce until every piece is coated with glorious creaminess. Pour everything into a buttered baking dish and sprinkle extra cheese on top for that irresistible golden crust. Bake at 350°F for about 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and browned on top. Serve hot and watch everyone dive in!

How to Serve Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

I usually top mine with a simple sprinkle of extra grated cheddar before baking, but my favorite finishing touch is a little fresh thyme or a dash of smoked paprika right after it comes out of the oven—it adds a pop of color and a hint of earthiness I adore.

Side Dishes

This mac and cheese pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even tangy pickles to cut through the richness. My go-to side is always roasted Brussels sprouts with a drizzle of balsamic glaze—perfect balance for the creamy pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I love serving this in individual ramekins topped with panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch. It looks elegant but still feels like home-cooked comfort food. You could also add a sprinkle of crispy fried onions for a delicious twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Covering it tightly helps prevent drying out, and I usually add a tiny splash of milk before reheating to bring back some creaminess.

Freezing

Freezing works well if you want to prep in advance. Just place the baked mac and cheese in a freezer-safe dish or individual portions, wrapped tightly in foil and plastic wrap. It freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover your dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through—about 20 minutes. Stir halfway if reheating from thawed leftovers to ensure even warmth. Microwave works in a pinch, but baking preserves that cherished crispy top and creamy texture better.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s that cozy, delicious dish everyone loves and asks for again and again. I remember making it for my family on chilly nights, seeing the smiles as they dug in, and realizing how simple ingredients could bring so much joy. I’m confident once you try it, you’ll feel the same way and keep it as a kitchen staple. So, grab your cheese grater and butter your baking dish—this recipe’s got a warm spot on your dinner table waiting!

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