why make this recipe

Baked Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food loved by many. This version is cheesy and creamy, making it a perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. It brings together the richness of three different cheeses and the heartiness of pasta, creating a meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it is easy to make and can be customized to fit your taste!

how to make Cheesy & Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

12 oz elbow macaroni (about 3 cups)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring consistently until the mixture thickens and is smooth, about 4-5 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted. Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, then pour it into the prepared baking dish. Top with panko breadcrumbs if desired.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the sauce is bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.

how to serve Cheesy & Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Serve the Cheesy & Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese warm, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables. You can also add some crispy bacon or steamed broccoli for a tasty twist!

how to store Cheesy & Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely and then cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

tips to make Cheesy & Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting characteristics.
If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce.
For a crunchy topping, mix some crushed crackers or additional cheese with the panko breadcrumbs before sprinkling.

variation

You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or roasted red peppers. For a meatier dish, consider adding cooked ground beef, chicken, or shrimp.

FAQs

1. Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use gluten-free elbow macaroni. Just follow the cooking instructions on the packaging.

2. Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the baking step in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

3. Can I substitute different cheeses?
Yes! Feel free to swap in your favorite cheeses, like gouda, fontina, or pepper jack, for a different flavor.

Cheesy & Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe