Description
Get ready to fall in love with this Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese—a classic, comforting dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner, holiday gathering, or easy weeknight meal. Tender macaroni is coated in a silky cheese sauce, then baked until bubbly and golden on top. Whether you need breakfast ideas, an easy recipe for dinner, or crave delicious food ideas, this mac and cheese brings everyone back for seconds. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, and you can even make it ahead!
Ingredients
340g elbow macaroni
3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for topping)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Cook until slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar, Gruyère, salt, pepper, and mustard powder until smooth.
6. Add cooked macaroni to cheese sauce. Stir well to coat.
7. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish. Top with extra cheese and sprinkle paprika if desired.
8. Bake 20-25 minutes, until golden and bubbly. Serve hot.
Notes
For the creamiest sauce, always shred your own cheese from a block—pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
Add a splash of milk when reheating leftovers to keep them creamy.
Customize the flavor by adding a pinch of cayenne or mixing in cooked bacon or sautéed onions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 casserole
- Calories: 495
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 510mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: easy recipe, mac and cheese, dinner ideas, comfort food, food ideas