There’s something magical about a steaming dish of homemade mac and cheese. The creamy, cheesy sauce, the golden, crispy topping, and the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen—it’s no wonder this dish is a favorite for so many. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just craving some comfort food, this Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese recipe is here to save the day.
Perfect for busy families, meal preppers, or beginners in the kitchen, this Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe is easy to follow and delivers restaurant-quality results. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your taste buds or dietary needs. Ready to make the BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese? Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is rich, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.
- It’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients and can be customized for dietary needs.
- The recipe is beginner-friendly and includes tips for achieving the perfect texture and flavor.
- Leftovers keep beautifully, so this dish is ideal for meal prep—just reheat and enjoy creamy mac and cheese all week long.
Ingredients
The secret to this Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe lies in its ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 2 cups |
| Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup |
| Milk | 2 1/2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 2 cups (shredded) |
| Gruyère cheese | 1 cup (shredded) |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup |
Ingredient Notes:
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a tangy flavor, while Gruyère adds a nutty richness. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your go-to cheeses; this recipe is flexible and welcomes your personal touch.
- Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but shells or cavatappi work too.
- Milk & Cream: Using a mix of milk and heavy cream ensures a luxuriously creamy sauce.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
With the proper kitchen tools on hand, whipping up this mac and cheese becomes effortless and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large pot | Boiling the pasta |
| Medium saucepan | Making the cheese sauce |
| Whisk | Smoothing out the sauce |
| Baking dish | Baking the mac and cheese |
| Colander | Draining the pasta |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Ensuring accurate ingredient quantities |
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create the BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C)—this ensures your mac and cheese bakes evenly to golden perfection.
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni in a pot of salted boiling water until it’s just tender but still has a slight bite (al dente). Drain and set aside.
- Make the Roux: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to create a smooth, golden roux.
- Add Liquids: Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Thicken the Sauce: Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens. Stir in the salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyère until melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until well-coated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Carefully pour the creamy pasta mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly for a consistent bake. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk before reheating leftovers.
Variations/Substitutions
This Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe is versatile. Here are some ways to customize it:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative.
- Keto: Swap regular pasta for cauliflower florets and use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Vegan: Use plant-based butter, cheese, and milk. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- Extra Toppings: Try crispy bacon bits, caramelized onions, or breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with these sides and beverages for a complete meal:
- Sides: Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
- Beverages: A crisp white wine, iced tea, or sparkling water with lemon.
- Plating Ideas: Serve in individual ramekins for a fancy touch or in a large dish for family-style dining.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months for longer-lasting enjoyment.
- Reheating: Microwave individual portions with a splash of milk for 1-2 minutes. For larger portions, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
FAQ
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish ahead of time—just cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if it’s going into the oven straight from the fridge.
2. Why is my sauce grainy?
Graininess can happen if the cheese is added to high heat. Always remove the saucepan from heat before stirring in the cheese.
3. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
While convenient, pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s smoothness. For best results, shred your own cheese.
4. How do I make it extra creamy?
Add an extra 1/4 cup of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce.
