Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort dish—rich, velvety, and baked until bubbly with a lightly golden top. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or potlucks, it delivers classic homemade flavor in every creamy bite.

Ingredients

• 2½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2½ cups milk (warm)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp mustard powder (optional)

Topping (optional)

• ½ cup breadcrumbs or panko
• 1 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain well and set aside.
2. Make the creamy sauce
   In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, until smooth and lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the warm milk, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
3. Add the cheese and seasoning
   Reduce heat to low. Stir in the cheddar, mozzarella (or Monterey Jack), and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and mustard powder if using.
4. Combine pasta and sauce
   Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently until evenly coated.
5. Assemble the dish
   Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. If using the topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top.
6. Bake
   Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
7. Rest and serve
   Let the mac and cheese rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.

✨ Tip: For extra creaminess, reserve ½ cup of cheese sauce and stir it in just before baking.