creamy baked mac and cheese

Here’s a rich, creamy baked mac and cheese that stays smooth and cheesy (not dry!) 🧀✨

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) elbow macaroni
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 tbsp flour
• 3 cups whole milk (warm)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cups shredded cheese (mix is best):
  • Sharp cheddar (main)
  • Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Gruyère
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika (optional)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Optional topping: ½–1 cup breadcrumbs + 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

1. Cook pasta
   • Boil macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce
   • Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
   • Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes (don’t brown).
   • Slowly whisk in warm milk and cream.
   • Cook until thick and smooth (about 5 minutes).
   • Lower heat and stir in cheese one handful at a time until melted.
   • Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Combine
   • Stir cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated.
4. Bake
   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Pour mac and cheese into a buttered baking dish.
   • Add breadcrumb topping if using.
   • Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden.
5. Rest & serve
   • Let sit 5–10 minutes before serving (this keeps it creamy).

Extra Creamy Tips

• Don’t overbake — that’s how it dries out
• Use block cheese, not pre-shredded
• Add a splash of milk before baking if it looks thick

Want a southern-style, three-cheese, or spicy version next? 😋