Baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, and the dish in the image displays everything people love about it—golden brown cheese on top, ultra-creamy macaroni inside, and irresistible cheese pulls. This recipe transforms simple pasta into a rich and satisfying meal that works for holidays, family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want a crowd-pleasing classic.
The combination of multiple cheeses, a smooth homemade sauce, and oven baking creates a perfect balance of creaminess and crispiness. The top layer becomes bubbly and golden, while the inside stays velvety and rich.
Ingredients
For the pasta:
- 400 g elbow macaroni
For the cheese sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 4 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup shredded gouda or Monterey Jack
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
For topping:
- 1 cup mixed cheese (cheddar + mozzarella)
- Extra black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until just al dente. Do not overcook, as the pasta will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until it forms a smooth paste. Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
Add garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, and salt. Lower the heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and gouda. Mix until fully melted and smooth.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently until every piece is coated. The mixture should be rich, creamy, and thick.
Step 4: Bake
Transfer the mac and cheese into a baking dish or cast-iron skillet. Spread evenly and top with additional shredded cheese. Sprinkle black pepper on top.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and slightly crisp.
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
Texture and Flavor
This baked mac and cheese has a beautiful balance of textures. The top layer becomes crispy, golden, and slightly chewy thanks to the melted cheese. The interior remains smooth, creamy, and rich. Each bite blends the warmth of the cheese sauce with the perfect tenderness of the macaroni.
The variety of cheeses creates depth and complexity. Cheddar adds sharpness, mozzarella creates stretch and creaminess, and gouda offers a buttery flavor. Garlic powder and paprika bring gentle warmth and aroma.
The cheese pulls shown in the image come from stretchy mozzarella that melts beautifully when baked.
Tips for Best Results
Use freshly shredded cheese instead of packaged shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Whisk continuously while making the sauce to avoid lumps. Cook the sauce until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Do not let the milk boil too rapidly.
Salt the pasta water generously to ensure flavorful macaroni. Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it can become mushy after baking.
For an extra crispy top, broil the dish for one to two minutes at the end, but monitor closely to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
This mac and cheese is rich and satisfying on its own, but it also pairs well with:
- Grilled chicken
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
- Salad
- Steamed broccoli
For gatherings, serve it alongside meats, casseroles, or holiday dishes. It’s also amazing as a late-night snack.
Variations
Customize the recipe with add-ins such as:
- Cooked bacon or chicken
- Caramelized onions
- Jalapeños or chili flakes
- Spinach or broccoli
- Extra spices like mustard powder or cayenne
If you prefer a crunchier topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top before baking.
For a richer flavor, replace some of the milk with heavy cream or evaporated milk.
Storage
Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Mac and cheese can also be frozen in individual portions. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it uses a classic roux-based cheese sauce that guarantees smooth, creamy results. The combination of cheeses creates perfect meltability and flavor depth. Baking adds texture and enhances the cheesy aroma.
With its golden crust and melty interior, baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort dish. It looks impressive, tastes incredible, and satisfies any cheese lover. Whether served for special occasions or casual meals, it is always a favorite.