Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
> 💬 “I brought this to a potluck, and it was gone before anything else. People were literally asking me for the recipe!”
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💛 Why You’ll Love This
This baked mac and cheese is rich, cheesy, and irresistibly creamy inside with a golden, slightly crispy top. It’s the perfect comfort food and a guaranteed showstopper at any gathering, potluck, or holiday table.
Ingredients & What They Do
1 lb (450g) elbow macaroni – A classic pasta shape that holds the cheese sauce perfectly.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Used to make a roux, adding richness and creaminess.
¼ cup all-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce and gives it a velvety texture.
3 cups whole milk – Adds creaminess and helps the sauce stay smooth.
1 cup heavy cream – Makes the cheese sauce extra rich and decadent.
2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese – The bold, cheesy base flavor.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Adds creaminess and a delicious melt.
½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds subtle warmth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the macaroni: Boil in salted water until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.
2. Make the roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes, until light golden and smooth.
3. Create the cheese sauce: Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, making sure there are no lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens (about 5–7 minutes).
4. Add cheeses: Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Combine with pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until well coated.
6. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Top with Parmesan: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
8. Bake: In a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Pro Tips
Want an ultra-crispy top? Add a layer of buttered breadcrumbs with the Parmesan.
Use freshly shredded cheese — it melts better than pre-packaged kinds.
You can prep it ahead and bake just before serving!
Serving Ideas
Serve it solo as a main dish with a fresh salad.
Pair with roasted chicken, BBQ, or grilled veggies.
It’s also a perfect side dish for holidays, potlucks, and cookouts.