There are few foods as universally comforting as baked mac and cheese. This dish has earned a permanent place in the hearts of many, from children to adults, thanks to its rich, cheesy, and creamy texture. Whether you're looking to whip up a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a dish to impress at a family gathering, creamy baked mac and cheese always delivers. But why settle for the usual when you can make it just the way your family loves it?

While mac and cheese is a staple in many households, the beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability. From simple stovetop versions to rich, oven-baked recipes, there are countless ways to make mac and cheese. But this baked version, which is both creamy and cheesy with a golden brown topping, is a crowd favorite in my family. In this recipe, I’ll walk you through how to make this creamy, comforting, and decadent dish that will surely become a favorite in your home too.

 

 

Ingredients for Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese:

 

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 1 lb. dry elbow macaroni pasta

• ½ cup salted butter

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 2 cups milk (at room temperature, I use 2% milk, but whole milk works just as well)

• 2 cups half-and-half (at room temperature)

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 12 ounces cubed Velveeta cheese (at room temperature)

• 3 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese (divided into two portions)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon dry mustard

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• Pinch of nutmeg

 

How to Make Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese:

1. Prepare the Pasta:

• Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni pasta and cook it for 1 minute less than the package suggests for al dente texture (usually around 8 minutes). Drain the pasta and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce:

• In a large Dutch oven (about 6-7 quarts), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux, which will help thicken your sauce.

• Gradually whisk in the milk and half-and-half, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once it begins to boil, remove the pot from the heat.

• Whisk in Worcestershire sauce for added flavor. Then, gradually add in all of the Velveeta cheese and 1 ½ cups of the grated sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until both cheeses are completely melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add salt, dry mustard, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, stirring to combine.

3. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:

• Add the cooked, drained pasta to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta completely with the creamy sauce.

4. Bake the Mac and Cheese:

• Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture to your prepared 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining 1 ½ cups of grated sharp cheddar cheese.

• Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top has melted and the sauce is bubbling.

5. Optional: Crisp the Topping:

• If you prefer a crispier, golden brown topping, place the dish under the broiler for 2-5 minutes, watching closely to ensure it doesn’t burn. This will give your mac and cheese the perfect crispy top that everyone loves.

 

Notes and Tips:

Calories:

• A serving of this creamy baked mac and cheese contains around 400-500 calories, depending on portion size and exact ingredients used.

 

Best for:

• This dish is perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish for larger meals. It’s a great addition to holiday spreads, family dinners, or potlucks. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

 

Storage:

• Leftover baked mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.

 

Who Should Enjoy This Dish?

Benefits:

• This creamy baked mac and cheese is a crowd-pleasing comfort food that’s perfect for children and adults alike. With the rich combination of cheeses, milk, and half-and-half, it's a great source of calcium and protein. If you’re looking for a hearty dish to satisfy your hunger, this mac and cheese will do the job!

 

Caution:

• This dish is a bit on the heavier side, so it may not be suitable for people who are on a low-fat, low-calorie, or gluten-free diet unless modifications are made. Additionally, due to the high cheese content, it may not be ideal for individuals who are lactose intolerant unless they use lactose-free dairy products or cheese alternatives.

 

Energy-Efficient Cooking Tips:

If you're looking to save energy while cooking, try these tips:

1. Use a pressure cooker for the pasta: Instead of boiling water on the stove, use a pressure cooker to cook your pasta quickly and efficiently.

2. Conserve heat: Once the dish is done baking, keep it covered with foil for the last few minutes to retain the heat longer.

3. Multi-task: If you are making other dishes, try to bake them at the same time at the same temperature (if they are compatible), rather than using the oven multiple times.

 

Conclusion:

Creamy baked mac and cheese is a timeless comfort food that is both satisfying and versatile. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or as a side, it’s sure to please any crowd. By following this easy recipe, you can create a dish that’s rich, cheesy, and irresistibly creamy. The combination of Velveeta and sharp cheddar creates a smooth, luscious sauce that perfectly coats the pasta, making each bite comforting and indulgent. Give it a try next time you're in the mood for something creamy and cheesy—you won’t be disappointed!

Share this recipe with your friends and family, and let us know how you make your mac and cheese in the comments!