Baked and Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

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Golden, bubbling, and irresistibly cheesy, this Baked and Creamy Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food classic. The crispy top layer gives way to a rich and velvety interior, each bite packed with tender elbow macaroni wrapped in a decadent blend of sharp cheddar and creamy goodness. It’s a dish that satisfies both the soul and the stomach, whether served as a main or a side.

What sets this version apart is the luxurious texture and the perfect balance of gooey cheese to pasta. This isn’t your boxed variety—it’s the kind of mac and cheese that feels homemade from the first forkful. With a golden crust formed by a generous topping of baked cheese, this dish is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Baked and Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

• Crispy cheesy top with a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth center
• Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or weeknight dinners
• Simple ingredients but deep, comforting flavor
• Easy to customize with different cheeses or add-ins like bacon or jalapeños

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the perfect baked macaroni and cheese, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Large pot: For boiling the pasta to al dente perfection.
• Medium saucepan: To prepare the roux and cheese sauce base.
• Whisk: Vital for stirring the roux and preventing lumps in your sauce.
• Baking dish (9×13 or similar): For baking the mac and cheese evenly.
• Mixing spoon or spatula: Useful for combining the pasta and cheese sauce thoroughly.
• Cheese grater: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.

Each of these tools contributes to achieving the right texture—smooth sauce, evenly cooked pasta, and a golden baked crust.

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Preparation Tips

Boil the pasta just until al dente—it will continue to cook while baking, and you don’t want it mushy. Use room temperature milk when preparing the roux for a smoother sauce, and always whisk constantly to avoid any clumping. Freshly shredded cheese is a must for the best melt and flavor, as it doesn’t contain the anti-caking agents found in pre-packaged shredded cheese. Layer some of the shredded cheese in the middle of the macaroni mix for pockets of gooey goodness, and don’t skimp on the top layer to achieve that perfect golden finish. Let it rest a few minutes after baking so the cheese sets and every scoop comes out intact.

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Ingredients for this Baked and Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

• 1 lb (16 oz) elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk (room temperature)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• Optional topping: 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs tossed in 1 tablespoon melted butter

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, according to the package instructions (usually around 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside. Do not overcook, as the pasta will continue cooking in the oven.

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Step 2: Make the Roux

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk constantly for about 2 minutes. This cooks out the raw flour taste and forms the base of your cheese sauce.

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Step 3: Add Milk and Cream

Slowly pour in the milk and cream while whisking to keep the mixture smooth. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon—about 5-7 minutes.

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Step 4: Season the Sauce

Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to the thickened sauce. Stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

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Step 5: Add the Cheese

Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in 2 cups of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan, reserving the rest for topping. Stir until completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

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Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl (or directly in the pot if it’s big enough), combine the drained pasta with the cheese sauce. Stir well to ensure all pasta is evenly coated. For extra cheesiness, layer in a bit of the reserved shredded cheese here.

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Step 7: Assemble in Baking Dish

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly and top with remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella. Sprinkle buttered panko breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish, if using.

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Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. For an extra crispy top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes—but watch closely to avoid burning.

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Step 9: Let It Rest

Remove from the oven and let the macaroni and cheese sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken and settle, making it easier to portion.

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Notes

For the richest flavor and smoothest texture, always use full-fat dairy and freshly shredded cheeses. Pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s creaminess. Don’t skip the resting time after baking—it makes a noticeable difference in how the dish holds together and serves. For a smoky kick, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. Feel free to play with cheese combinations—gruyère, fontina, or even a touch of blue cheese can elevate the flavor profile.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the pasta: It will turn mushy after baking. Stick to al dente.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: These cheeses don’t melt as well and may cause a grainy texture.
• Skipping the roux: The butter-flour base is crucial for a stable, creamy cheese sauce.
• Not seasoning the sauce: Cheese adds salt, but your sauce still needs seasoning to be flavorful.
• Baking uncovered for too long: This can dry out the dish. Bake just until bubbly and golden.

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Storage Instructions

Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess and microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. You can also reheat it in a covered baking dish at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid freezing, as the texture may suffer upon thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving – approx. 8 servings)

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 480mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish fully (without baking), cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

Can I freeze baked macaroni and cheese?

While it’s possible, freezing can change the texture of the sauce. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

What cheese works best for mac and cheese?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can mix in gouda, gruyère, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella for a twist.

How do I keep my cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

Use freshly grated cheese, avoid overheating, and stir constantly when melting the cheese into the sauce.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free elbow macaroni and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for the roux.

What proteins can I add?

Shredded chicken, cooked bacon, or even ground beef are great additions for a heartier version.

Is it okay to skip baking?

Yes, you can serve it stovetop-style right after combining the pasta and cheese sauce if you prefer it extra creamy.

What size baking dish should I use?

A standard 9×13-inch baking dish works well for this amount. You can also use individual ramekins for single servings.

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Conclusion

Baked and Creamy Macaroni and Cheese is more than a nostalgic comfort—it’s a canvas for rich flavors, gooey textures, and crowd-pleasing satisfaction. With just a few key techniques and quality ingredients, you can elevate this humble dish into something truly unforgettable. Whether for a cozy dinner, holiday side, or indulgent leftover, this recipe hits the spot every time.

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