Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

When nothing but the coziest comfort food will do, it’s hard to beat a bubbly, golden pan of Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese. This irresistible classic delivers gooey, flavorful cheese in every bite, perfectly paired with tender noodles and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting friends, or simply craving something familiar and fabulous, this recipe will quickly become a year-round favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed by how easy it is to create rich, layered flavors using simple pantry staples. Each ingredient in Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese plays a crucial role, from creamy cheeses to the deeply satisfying, crispy top.

• Elbow macaroni (8 oz): The classic shape for catching pockets of melty cheese in every bite.
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups): Brings bold, tangy flavor and the beloved golden color to the dish.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Adds essential stretchiness and extra creamy texture.
• Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): The cornerstone for a rich roux that binds the sauce together.
• All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): Ensures your cheese sauce is perfectly thick and silky-smooth.
• Milk, whole or 2% (2 cups): For a luscious, creamy base—whole milk gives an extra dose of richness.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds subtle depth and a gentle aromatic warmth.
• Mustard powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the cheeses’ flavor while balancing the richness.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring everything together beautifully.
• Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Delivers the perfect golden crunch your Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese needs.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps toast the breadcrumbs evenly for a savory, crispy finish.
• Paprika (1/4 teaspoon, optional for garnish): Adds a gentle pop of color and a hint of smokiness if you like.

How to Make Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Start by bringing a generously salted pot of water to a boil, then add your elbow macaroni. Cook until just al dente—the noodles will finish cooking in the oven, so don’t overdo it! Drain the pasta well and set it aside while you work on the glorious cheese sauce.

Step 2: Make a Smooth Roux

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until foamy. Stir in the flour and whisk it constantly for 1-2 minutes. This forms the roux—a magical mixture that gives your Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese its signature velvety sauce. You want the roux to lose its raw flour smell but not brown, so keep a close eye and keep whisking!

Step 3: Whisk in the Milk

Slowly pour the milk into your roux while whisking non-stop. This ensures a lump-free, creamy sauce as it cooks. Let the mixture simmer gently, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

Step 4: Add Seasoning and Cheese

Remove the thickened sauce from the heat and stir in the garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Next, add the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella, stirring until you have a silky, fully melted cheese sauce. This is where Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese gets its undeniable richness!

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Add your drained elbow macaroni to the sauce, folding until every noodle is perfectly coated. This extra step ensures no bite goes without a generous helping of cheese.

Step 6: Assemble and Top with Breadcrumbs

Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour in the macaroni and cheese mixture, spreading it out evenly. In a small bowl, toss your breadcrumbs with olive oil until they’re well moistened—this guarantees a beautifully crisp topping. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top for that irresistible, bakery-style crunch.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the dish into your preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. When your Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese emerges, the top will be delightfully golden with bubbling edges. For a final flourish, sprinkle a dash of paprika over the piping hot dish before serving, if desired.

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Garnishes

For that show-stopping look, top your Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives. The vibrant green adds a fresh lift, and even a little extra cheddar or mozzarella sprinkled on top before baking will make the crust even cheesier.

Side Dishes

This rich and creamy bake pairs beautifully with a side salad of crisp greens and tangy vinaigrette, balancing out the decadent cheese. Garlic bread or roasted vegetables are also wonderful sides—think broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or sweet roasted carrots.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, bake the macaroni in individual ramekins for personal servings. Or, try family style: serve it on a large platter topped with extra crispy breadcrumbs and fresh herbs. Leftovers can even be scooped into muffin tins and baked for crowd-pleasing “mac and cheese muffins!”

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese holds up well in the fridge for up to four days. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. The cheese sauce will thicken as it sits but will stay deliciously creamy when you reheat it.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole (without breadcrumbs), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, add the breadcrumb topping, and proceed with baking. For leftovers, cool completely, portion into airtight containers, and freeze up to two months.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. For individual portions, the microwave works well—heat in 1-minute increments, stirring between each, until hot. If needed, add a splash of milk to bring back the creaminess, and finish under the broiler for a fresh crispy top.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and mozzarella give Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese its classic taste and texture, you can experiment with Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a little smoked gouda for a fun twist.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes—you can substitute the elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs on top for a fully gluten-free version everyone can enjoy.

Is it possible to prep Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the breadcrumbs right before it goes in the oven for the crunchiest finish.

How do I keep the cheese sauce from turning grainy?

The key is to melt the cheese off the heat, stirring gently, and never let the sauce come to a boil after the cheese has been added. This keeps your Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese beautifully smooth every time.

Can I add mix-ins to customize this recipe?

Of course! Stir in cooked bacon, sautéed onions, roasted vegetables, or even diced jalapeños before baking. Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese is wonderfully adaptable to your favorite flavors.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for an utterly satisfying, cheese-pull worthy recipe, Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese simply can’t be beat. It’s a hug in a baking dish—simple enough for busy weeknights, but special enough for celebrations. I hope you’ll give it a try and make it a tradition at your table, too!

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