Description
Creamy Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food made with elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, and a rich, velvety sauce. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this baked version is crispy on top, gooey inside, and easy to make ahead.
Ingredients
1 pound elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until golden.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Stir constantly until thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
5. Lower the heat and add shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
6. Stir the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce until well combined.
7. Pour the mixture into the baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs if desired.
8. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Make sure not to overcook the macaroni, it will continue cooking in the oven.
Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and texture.
Add a splash of milk when reheating to bring back creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg