Description
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is the definition of classic comfort food. This oven-baked version combines tender elbow macaroni with a luxuriously smooth cheese sauce made from butter, milk, half-and-half, and a blend of melting cheeses. Baked just long enough to become bubbly and irresistibly creamy, this dish delivers rich flavor without drying out, making it perfect for both everyday dinners and special gatherings.
Unlike dry or crumbly versions, this mac and cheese stays velvety on the inside with a beautifully melted cheese topping that can be lightly broiled for a golden finish.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
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Families who love traditional comfort food
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Home cooks who want a reliable, creamy baked mac and cheese
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Holiday and potluck hosts needing a crowd-pleasing side dish
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Anyone who prefers rich, smooth cheese sauce over dry baked pasta
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Beginners looking for a foolproof classic recipe
Why It’s Great
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Ultra-creamy texture: Thanks to a proper roux and dairy balance
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Balanced cheese flavor: Smooth melt with sharp cheddar depth
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Quick bake time: Prevents dryness while keeping it bubbly
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Customizable: Easy to add breadcrumbs, bacon, or spices
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Family-approved: A timeless favorite for all ages
Ingredients
Pasta
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1 lb (450 g) dry elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
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½ cup salted butter
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½ cup all-purpose flour
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2 cups milk (2% or whole), room temperature
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2 cups half-and-half, room temperature
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1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
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12 oz (340 g) processed melting cheese (cubed, room temperature)
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3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated and divided
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp dry mustard
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¼ tsp black pepper
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Pinch of ground nutmeg
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Large pot for boiling pasta
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Colander
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Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
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Whisk
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Measuring cups and spoons
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9 × 13-inch baking dish
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Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Pasta
Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch baking dish.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni 1 minute less than al dente according to package instructions. Drain and toss with a small drizzle of oil to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Roux
In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to remove any raw flour taste.
3. Build the Cheese Sauce
Slowly whisk in the milk and half-and-half, a little at a time, until smooth. Continue whisking and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and stir in the Worcestershire sauce.
4. Add the Cheese and Seasoning
Gradually stir in the cubed melting cheese and 1½ cups of the cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add salt, dry mustard, black pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until well combined.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix gently until every piece is evenly coated.
6. Bake
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1½ cups of cheddar cheese evenly on top.
Bake for 15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted.
7. Optional Broil
For a golden, lightly crisp top, place the dish under the broiler for 2–5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
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Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months (best without the broiled topping)
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Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven or microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess
FAQ
Why cook the pasta slightly under al dente?
The pasta continues cooking in the oven, preventing it from becoming mushy.
Can I use only cheddar cheese?
Yes, but combining cheeses improves melt and texture.
How do I keep baked mac and cheese from drying out?
Lower oven temperature and short bake time are key, along with enough sauce.
Can I add toppings?
Absolutely—breadcrumbs, bacon, or caramelized onions work beautifully.
Conclusion
This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is a timeless classic done right—rich, smooth, and deeply comforting without being heavy or dry. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a family favorite and earns a permanent place in your comfort food rotation. Simple ingredients, dependable technique, and unforgettable flavor make this mac and cheese truly irresistible.
