Description
Get ready for the ultimate comfort food—Baked Mac and Cheese with Sauce. This classic recipe blends tender macaroni with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, then bakes it to golden perfection. The result is bubbling, cheesy goodness in every bite. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner, a crowd-pleasing side, or a hearty food idea for the holidays, this dish delivers. It’s a top pick for fans of quick meals, comfort food recipes, and cheesy casseroles that are simple yet impressive. Perfect for weeknight cravings or weekend indulgence.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons cream cheese
0.5 teaspoon salt
0.25 teaspoon black pepper
0.25 teaspoon paprika (optional)
0.25 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
0.5 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden.
3. Slowly whisk in the milk and then the cream. Continue whisking until thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese until melted. Add cheddar and mozzarella, stirring until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the cheese sauce. Mix well and pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. If using, top with breadcrumbs. Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
7. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra depth of flavor, use a mix of cheddar and Gruyère.
Add crispy bacon or caramelized onions for a savory twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta, family dinner