Name: Baked Mac and Cheese with Creamy Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 4 tablespoons butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon ground mustard (optional); ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Nothing spells comfort like a bubbling tray of Baked Mac and Cheese with Creamy Sauce fresh from the oven. This golden-topped, cheese-loaded classic is everything you want in a cozy side—or a meal all on its own. The edges are crispy, the inside irresistibly creamy, and every bite melts into delicious, nostalgic satisfaction.

Whether you’re serving it alongside roasted chicken or dishing it up on a holiday buffet, this baked mac and cheese never fails to steal the spotlight. The creamy sauce clings to every piece of pasta, thanks to a thoughtful mix of cheeses and a slow-baked finish that gives you that crave-worthy crust on top.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating the perfect baked mac and cheese starts with a few key tools:

Large pot – Ideal for boiling your macaroni to al dente without overcrowding.
Whisk – Crucial for making a lump-free roux and velvety béchamel base.
Oven-safe baking dish – A glass or ceramic dish helps evenly bake and brown the top.

Box grater or food processor – Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother and enhances the creamy texture.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – Great for stirring the sauce and folding in pasta gently.

Each tool plays a small but mighty role in ensuring your final dish is creamy, cohesive, and golden on top.

Ingredients for the Baked Mac and Cheese with Creamy Sauce

Elbow macaroni – The star pasta shape that perfectly traps all the creamy cheese sauce.
Butter – Forms the base of the roux, adding richness and body.
All-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce without affecting the flavor.

Whole milk – Delivers the creamy consistency you want in every bite.
Heavy cream – Adds extra indulgence and thickness.
Sharp cheddar cheese – For that classic bold cheesy punch.

Mozzarella cheese – Offers that stretchy, gooey texture we all love.
Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, umami depth and browns beautifully on top.
Salt & pepper – To balance and enhance all the cheesy flavors.

Optional: ground mustard or smoked paprika – For subtle background flavor and color.

How To Make the Baked Mac and Cheese with Creamy Sauce

Step 1: Boil the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is golden and bubbling.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses

Lower the heat and stir in sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Stir until fully melted into a creamy, luscious sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, mixing gently so the pasta stays intact and fully coated.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle extra cheddar and Parmesan over the top. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

How to Serve and Store This Baked Mac and Cheese

Serve this dish hot, right out of the oven, for the ultimate cheese pull and creamy texture. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, barbecue ribs, or even by itself as a rich vegetarian main course.

To store, let the mac and cheese cool completely. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of milk to revive the creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the mac and cheese creamy after baking?

Use a mix of milk and heavy cream, and don’t overbake. Adding extra cheese on top before baking also helps seal in moisture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the mac and cheese (without baking) up to a day in advance and refrigerate. When ready to eat, bake as directed.

What cheese combinations work best?

A blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan offers richness, stretchiness, and depth. You can also try Gruyère or Fontina for variation.

Can I add breadcrumbs on top?

Yes! A light breadcrumb topping mixed with melted butter adds a nice crunch.

Is it okay to use pre-shredded cheese?

Freshly grated cheese melts smoother and tastes better, but pre-shredded will work in a pinch.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Swap regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free elbow macaroni and use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

Want More Pasta Comfort Food Ideas?

If you’re into creamy, cheesy goodness, check out these other reader favorites:

Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells for a veggie-forward twist.
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole if you’re craving something hearty and indulgent.

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole for that nostalgic, home-style comfort.
One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese to level up your pasta night.
Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini for a sweet-savory combo you won’t forget.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add breadcrumbs or extra cheese? Maybe a sprinkle of cayenne?

I love hearing your variations—let’s share some kitchen creativity!

Baked Mac and Cheese with Creamy Sauce

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Baked Mac and Cheese with Creamy Sauce is the ultimate comfort food. A rich, velvety cheese sauce hugs every macaroni noodle, while the oven creates that golden, bubbling crust on top. Perfect as a standalone meal or crowd-pleasing side, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone back for seconds.