Introduction
When only the best will do, this Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese delivers pure comfort food perfection. Rich, velvety, and loaded with premium cheeses, this dish will instantly become a staple in your home. Ideal for family dinners, holiday tables, or any night that demands serious comfort, this mac and cheese remains wonderfully creamy even after baking, thanks to a few special techniques.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
First, it’s made with real, high-quality cheddar cheeses, ensuring deep, satisfying flavor in every bite. Secondly, the luxurious cheese sauce stays perfectly creamy, making it a standout among baked mac and cheese recipes. Plus, you can easily customize the toppings to suit your taste—from smoky chipotle cheese to crispy breadcrumbs.
Recipe Origins
Classic American comfort food at its finest, baked mac and cheese has roots in both European and Southern U.S. culinary traditions. This ultimate version elevates the traditional dish by focusing on premium cheeses and a foolproof creamy béchamel sauce, offering a modern twist to a beloved favorite.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 508
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 21g
Quick Facts
Preparation Time: 15 min
Cooking Time: 30 min
Total Time: 45 min
Servings: 6
Difficulty: ⭐⭐
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave covered loosely with plastic wrap, or bake at 350°F until warmed through. You can also freeze the assembled dish (unbaked) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy baked mac and cheese alongside roasted veggies like broccoli or Brussels sprouts. For an indulgent meal, pair it with crispy fried chicken or a hearty salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
Common Mistakes
Using pre-shredded cheese: Always grate your own cheese to avoid anti-caking agents that interfere with melting.
Overcooking the pasta: Slightly undercooked pasta prevents mushiness after baking.
Skipping seasoning adjustments: Always taste your cheese sauce before baking and add extra salt if needed to make the flavors pop.
Recipe Variations
Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a kick.
Three-Cheese Deluxe: Include Gruyère or Fontina along with cheddar for extra depth.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! Assemble it without the topping, refrigerate, then bake and top when ready to serve.
Can I use different cheeses?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with your favorites—just ensure they melt smoothly.
How do I avoid a grainy sauce?
Remove the sauce from heat before adding cheese, and stir gently for a perfectly creamy result.
Ingredients
- 8 oz dried elbow macaroni
- ¼ cup butter (salted or unsalted)
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk (recommended 3-3.5% butterfat)
- 7 oz mature aged white cheddar, crumbled
- 3 oz sharp orange cheddar, crumbled
- ½ teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional Toppings:
- ½ oz sharp cheddar, grated
- Pinch chipotle chili powder (or paprika)
- Alternative Crispy Topping:
- ½ cup panko or dried breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons melted salted butter
- ½ cup sharp cheddar, grated
Instructions
1- Bring 8–10 cups of salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add pasta and cook for 2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking. 2- While pasta cooks, prepare the cheese sauce. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 2 minutes. 3- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring and cooking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 8–10 minutes. 4- Remove the pan from heat. Stir in crumbled cheeses, salt, chili powder, and garlic powder. Let sit 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. 5- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), non-fan assisted. 6- Add drained pasta to the cheese sauce, mixing gently but thoroughly. 7- Spoon the mixture into a greased 8-inch square baking dish or individual baking dishes. 8- Add your topping of choice: simple cheese, cheese with chipotle chili powder, or crispy buttered breadcrumbs. 9- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. 10- Let stand for a few minutes before serving for best texture.
