Description
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich, cheesy, and creamy experience that’s hard to resist. This recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with a luscious cheese sauce made from a blend of Velveeta and sharp cheddar cheese. It’s baked to perfection with a golden, bubbly top, making it a delightful dish for any occasion.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves a classic, creamy macaroni and cheese dish. It’s great for families, potlucks, and gatherings, and appeals to both kids and adults. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this mac and cheese will satisfy everyone’s cravings.
Why It’s Great
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of Velveeta and cheddar cheeses creates a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Customizable: Add-ins like bacon, breadcrumbs, or vegetables can be incorporated for variety.
- Comforting and Satisfying: A beloved dish that’s perfect for cozy meals.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and easy-to-find cheeses.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. dry elbow macaroni pasta
- ½ cup salted butter
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk, at room temperature (2% or whole milk works well)
- 2 cups half-and-half, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 12 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed and at room temperature
- 3 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese, divided (at room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of nutmeg
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Dutch oven (6-7 quarts) or large saucepan
- 9 x 13-inch baking dish
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
How to Make Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni for 1 minute less than the package instructions for al dente (approximately 8 minutes). Drain the pasta and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and half-and-half, continuing to whisk until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens. Remove from heat.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, followed by the Velveeta cheese cubes and 1 ½ cups of the grated cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt, dry mustard, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir to combine.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked, drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated.
- Bake the Mac and Cheese:
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups of grated cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbly.
- Optional Broil: For a crispier and browner top, place the baking dish under the broiler for 2-5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese? Yes, you can mix and match cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
How can I make the dish lighter? To lighten the dish, use reduced-fat cheese, milk, and half-and-half. You can also reduce the amount of cheese used.
Conclusion
This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is a timeless classic that delivers comfort in every bite. With its rich, velvety cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that never fails to please. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy it fresh from the oven with a crispy golden top and a gooey, cheesy center.
