Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese – Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Make the best creamy baked mac and cheese with a rich, cheesy sauce and golden breadcrumb topping. A cozy, crowd-pleasing comfort dish perfect for holidays and family dinners.

Creamy Mac and Cheese Bake

This creamy mac and cheese bake is everything comfort food should be — rich, velvety cheese sauce wrapped around tender pasta, topped with buttery breadcrumbs, and baked until bubbly and golden. It’s warm, nostalgic, and perfect for cozy nights or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• 3 cups whole milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella (optional for extra creaminess)

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Topping:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni until just al dente (1–2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.

2. Make the roux: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbly and lightly golden.

3. Add the milk and cream: Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring until smooth. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, until thickened.

4. Add the cheese: Turn off the heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted and creamy. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

5. Combine with pasta. Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated. Pour mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

6. Add the topping: Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the top.

7. Bake: Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

8. Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy the creamy center and crisp, buttery topping!

Tips & Variations:

• Add crispy bacon bits, ham, or lobster for a gourmet twist.

• Mix in a little Gruyère or fontina for extra depth of flavor.

• Use evaporated milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version that’s still rich.