As I stood in the kitchen, a delicious aroma wafting through the air, I realized I was about to embark on a comforting journey with my Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese. This dish isn’t just a weeknight staple; it’s a heartfelt embrace on a plate that combines tender elbow macaroni and a luscious cheese sauce crowned with a crispy layer. What I love most about this recipe is its effortless charm—prep takes just 20 minutes, making it perfect for both cozy family dinners and lively gatherings with friends. Plus, it’s beginner-friendly and offers a gluten-free option, so you can savor this classic comfort food without a hitch. Ready to whip up a dish that’ll fill your home with warmth and joy? Let’s dive into this cheesy delight! Why is this mac-and-cheese unforgettable? Comforting, creamy goodness: This Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese is the epitome of comfort food. Easy to make: With just 20 minutes of prep, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Versatile option: You can easily customize it with your favorite mix-ins like cooked bacon or spinach. Gluten-free friendly: A simple swap allows gluten-sensitive friends to join in on the cheesy fun. Crowd-pleaser: Serve with a fresh salad or alongside crispy veggies for delightful balance, just like with my Baked Parmesan Zucchini. Get ready for a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese Ingredients For the Pasta • Elbow Macaroni – The base of this dish, providing structure and chewiness; feel free to swap it for shapes like penne or shells for a different twist. For the Cheese Sauce • Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds bold flavor and creaminess; try other melting cheeses like Gruyère for an exciting variation. • Whole Milk – Makes the sauce extra creamy; almond milk works wonderfully for a dairy-free option. • Heavy Cream – Enhances richness and thickness; you can skip it for a lighter version if desired. • Unsalted Butter – Essential for forming a roux; margarine or oil can be substituted if preferred. • All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce, but feel free to swap with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for a gluten-free dish. • Salt – Enhances overall flavor, adjust according to your taste. • Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Provides seasoning and texture; white pepper is a milder alternative. • Dry Mustard Powder – Adds tanginess and depth; prepared mustard works as a substitute in a pinch. • Smoked Paprika – Offers warmth and color, regular paprika is milder if that’s your preference. For the Topping • Breadcrumbs – Adds a crunchy topping; crushed crackers can be a delightful substitute as well. Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to start creating this Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese that will undoubtedly become a beloved staple in your home! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This ensures a beautiful, golden crust for your Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients and equipment to streamline the cooking process. Step 2: Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until slightly al dente, about 6–8 minutes, according to package directions. Drain the pasta well, then return it to the pot. This will keep the noodles warm while you prepare the creamy cheese sauce. Step 3: Make the Roux In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbly, forming a roux. This step is crucial for thickening your cheese sauce to achieve the perfect creamy texture in your mac-and-cheese. Step 4: Add Milk and Cream Gradually whisk in 3 cups of whole milk, followed by 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Continue to cook, stirring constantly for about 3-5 minutes or until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth. You will know it’s ready when it coats the back of your spoon and bubbles gently. Step 5: Season the Sauce Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon of dry mustard powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Mix well to combine these flavors, ensuring your creamy cheese sauce has a delightful depth that will elevate your Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese. Step 6: Incorporate the Cheese Add 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the saucepan and stir until fully melted and creamy. Keep the heat off to maintain the rich, velvety texture of the cheese sauce. This is where the comforting essence of your mac-and-cheese really takes shape, delivering that gooey goodness we all love. Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated. This step is where the magic of the Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese begins, as the pasta absorbs all the deliciously rich flavors of the sauce. Step 8: Transfer to Baking Dish Carefully pour the macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. This ensures that your comforting meal bakes uniformly, resulting in an irresistible texture throughout. Now, it’s time to prepare the topping for added crunch. Step 9: Add Topping Sprinkle any leftover shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the mac-and-cheese. For an extra crispy layer, you may also mix 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle that on top. This will create a delightful contrast to the creamy filling beneath. Step 10: Bake to Perfection Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown. This step transforms your dish into a beautifully baked Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese that is sure to impress. Step 11: Cool and Serve Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the mac-and-cheese to set, making it easier to serve. Now, gather your loved ones around to enjoy this comforting, creamy delight that is sure to bring smiles all around! Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese Variations Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor this recipe to your taste buds and dietary preferences! Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pasta and all-purpose flour blend to keep the deliciousness without the gluten. Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk and a dairy-free cheese to create a creamy delight that everyone can enjoy. Vegetable-Packed: Stir in steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for a pop of color and an added nutritional boost. Spicy Kick: Blend in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat that your taste buds will love! Bacon Infusion: Add crispy, crumbled bacon to the mix for an indulgent and savory twist. Who can resist that smoky flavor? Cheese Variety: Experiment with different melting cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina for a sophisticated flavor profile that elevates the classic dish. Herb Aroma: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to brighten up the dish with aromatic touches that will tantalize your senses. Crunchy Topping: Try crushed-up potato chips or pretzels as a topping for an unexpected and delightful crunch alongside the classic breadcrumbs. With these variations, you can transform your Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese into something uniquely yours. Just don’t forget to enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite, just like with my Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta! What to Serve with Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese There’s nothing quite like a comforting meal that perfectly balances flavors and textures, making every bite a joy. Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, enhancing each mouthful of mac-and-cheese. Garlic Bread: The golden, toasty edges of garlic bread provide a delightful crunch, offering a flavor contrast that makes each bite unforgettable. Roasted Broccoli: Smoky, caramelized broccoli is a nutritious side that adds vibrant color and depth, balancing the creamy form of the mac-and-cheese beautifully. Grilled Chicken: Juicy, herb-marinated grilled chicken is a savory complement, providing heartiness to the meal while keeping it light and satisfying. Steamed Asparagus: Bright and slightly nutty, steamed asparagus offers a refreshing touch that pairs perfectly with the rich cheese sauce, encouraging a delightful balance. Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay brings elegance, with its fruity notes enhancing the cheesy flavors, making it a lovely companion. Chocolate Chip Cookies: A sweet finish like warm chocolate chip cookies against the creamy backdrop of mac-and-cheese creates an intimate, nostalgic ending to your meal. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify meal planning! You can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the elbow macaroni up to 24 hours in advance, storing both components separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish, simply combine the macaroni with the cheese sauce, transfer it to the baking dish, top with cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake as directed. To maintain the creamy texture, ensure the sauce is fully cooled before refrigerating. This way, you’ll enjoy all the delicious flavors of your mac-and-cheese with minimal effort during hectic weeknights! How to Store and Freeze Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days to maintain freshness. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture and prevent drying out. Make-Ahead: Prepare the dish without baking and store it in the fridge. When ready to enjoy your Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese, simply bake as directed! Expert Tips for Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese Cheese Choice: Use freshly shredded cheese for optimal melting since pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that can affect texture. Pasta Cooking: Cook the elbow macaroni just slightly al dente; it will soak up more cheese sauce and maintain the perfect bite once baked. Rest Before Serving: Allow the mac-and-cheese to cool for a few minutes after baking for easier slicing and serving, ensuring everyone enjoys its creamy goodness. Adjust Thickness: If your cheese sauce seems too thick, whisk in a little more milk or cream until you reach your desired creamy consistency, gently enhancing the overall experience without compromising the flavor. Spice It Up: Don’t forget the seasoning! Properly seasoning your sauce with salt and pepper is crucial for elevating the flavors in your Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese. Mix It Up: Feel free to add cooked bacon, sautéed veggies, or different cheese blends to personalize your dish, taking your comfort food to the next level! Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe ingredients for this mac-and-cheese? Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose high-quality, freshly shredded cheddar cheese without additives for optimal melting. When selecting elbow macaroni, look for brands that are firm and not brittle, indicating freshness. If you opt for vegetables like spinach, ensure they are vibrant green with no yellowing leaves. How should I store leftover Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese? Very good question! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of milk for extra creaminess if needed. Can I freeze Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese? Absolutely! You can freeze this delicious dish for up to 3 months. To do this, let the mac-and-cheese cool completely, then transfer it into airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly—about 20 minutes. What should I do if my cheese sauce isn’t creamy enough? If your cheese sauce ends up too thick, don’t worry! Simply whisk in a little more milk or cream over low heat until you achieve the desired creaminess. Start with a tablespoon at a time and stir well until you get that luscious texture you’ve been craving. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Absolutely! For gluten-free options, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. You can also use gluten-free pasta shapes to ensure everyone can enjoy this dish. Additionally, for a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with almond milk or other plant-based alternatives. How do I enhance the flavor of my Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese? To really boost the flavor, I recommend seasoning the cheese sauce adequately with salt and pepper. You can also incorporate cooked bacon or sautéed onions for a deeper profile. For those who love spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to give it an exciting kick! Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Dish Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese is a comforting dish that combines tender macaroni with a luscious cheese sauce, making it perfect for family dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 ounces Elbow Macaroni Feel free to swap it for shapes like penne or shells.For the Cheese Sauce3 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese You can try other melting cheeses like Gruyère.3 cups Whole Milk Almond milk works wonderfully for a dairy-free option.1/2 cup Heavy Cream You can skip for a lighter version.4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Margarine or oil can be substituted.1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Feel free to swap with gluten-free flour.1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to your taste.1/2 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper White pepper is a milder alternative.1 teaspoon Dry Mustard Powder Prepared mustard works as a substitute.1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika is milder.For the Topping1/2 cup Breadcrumbs Crushed crackers can be a delightful substitute. Equipment 9x13-inch baking dishMedium saucepanLarge Pot Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until slightly al dente, about 6-8 minutes.In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.Gradually whisk in 3 cups of whole milk, followed by 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Cook, stirring constantly for about 3-5 minutes.Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of dry mustard powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika.Add 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted and creamy.Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, mixing well.Pour the macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.Sprinkle leftover shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Mix 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, sprinkle on top.Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden brown.Let cool for a few minutes before slicing to serve. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesFor the best results, use freshly shredded cheese and ensure the pasta is slightly al dente to absorb the sauce. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
