Creamy and Cheesy Baked Macaroni

Name: Creamy and Cheesy Baked Macaroni
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Create a comforting classic with this Creamy and Cheesy Baked Macaroni recipe that's perfect for family dinners and potlucks. Made with rich, velvety cheese sauce and perfectly al dente pasta, this dish is baked until golden and bubbly, making it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Perfect for cozy nights, it pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-11-21T04:46:01.190Z

This creamy baked macaroni is a family favorite that's sure to bring smiles at the dinner table. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it's ideal for any occasion.

A Classic Comfort Food

Baked macaroni and cheese is a timeless dish that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. This Creamy and Cheesy Baked Macaroni recipe takes the best elements of traditional mac and cheese and elevates them to a whole new level of deliciousness. The combination of tender pasta and a luscious cheese sauce provides a satisfying texture that's hard to resist. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or served at a gathering, this dish is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.

The beauty of baked macaroni lies in its versatility. You can customize it easily by adding your favorite ingredients, such as sautéed vegetables, cooked meats, or even a sprinkle of your favorite spices. This recipe serves as a fantastic base, allowing you the freedom to experiment while still preserving the heart of what makes this dish so loved. Serve it as a main course or a delightful side, and it fits perfectly into any menu.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Creamy and Cheesy Baked Macaroni is more than just a meal; it’s a dish that brings people together. Ideal for family dinners, gatherings, and potlucks, it satisfies both adults and children alike. The golden, bubbly top is an enticing invitation, while the rich flavors keep everyone coming back for seconds. Pair it with a fresh side salad or crusty bread, and you have a well-rounded meal that complements any occasion.

Moreover, this recipe is excellent for meal prep. Make a large batch ahead of time, and enjoy the comforting goodness throughout the week. Simply bake and store leftovers in the fridge for quick reheats—that means delicious mac and cheese is just a few minutes away whenever you need it. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish proves that feeding your loved ones can be both easy and incredibly satisfying.

Secret to the Creamy Sauce

Mastering the cheese sauce is the key to achieving the ultimate creamy texture in this baked macaroni. Using a combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses not only enhances the flavor but also helps in creating that gooey consistency that everyone craves. When making the sauce, it's essential to whisk continuously to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth finish. This technique allows the cheese to melt evenly, enveloping the macaroni in rich, velvety goodness.

Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste! Adding a bit more garlic powder or incorporating some spicy cheese can add a personal touch that makes this dish uniquely yours. Remember, the cheese sauce is the heart of the recipe, so taking the time to perfect it will pay off in flavor and satisfaction.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Make sure to have everything ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy baked macaroni:

Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, and continue stirring until the mixture thickens.

Add the cheddar cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and stir until melted and smooth.

Combine and Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the macaroni and cheese sauce. Pour into a greased baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden and bubbly.

Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your dish!

Tips for Baking

To ensure your baked macaroni comes out perfectly every time, consider using a ceramic or glass baking dish. These materials provide even heat distribution, which promotes even cooking and browning. Preheating your oven is crucial too; a well-heated oven will help achieve that ideal crispy topping without overcooking the pasta underneath.

If you enjoy a crunchier top, broiling the dish for a few minutes at the end can create an irresistible golden crust. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, as broilers can change the cooking time drastically. Additionally, let the macaroni rest for about five minutes before serving—it allows the cheese sauce to set, making for cleaner servings and a more delightful dining experience.

FAQs

One common question is whether you can make this dish ahead of time. The answer is yes! Prepare the macaroni and cheese as per the instructions, but instead of baking it immediately, cover it and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply bake it for a longer time, as it will be starting cold from the fridge.

Another frequently asked question pertains to leftovers. While baked macaroni is best eaten fresh, you can store any unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, and add a splash of milk to regain some creaminess. This ensures you can relish the flavors even on the second or third day!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and then bake it when ready to serve.

→ How can I make it healthier?

You can substitute whole wheat pasta and use lower-fat cheese options.