Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese Recipe

If there’s a dish that instantly feels like a warm hug, it’s this Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese Recipe. Every spoonful delivers that comforting, cheesy goodness with just the right balance of creaminess and a golden, baked crust. Rich sharp cheddar melts beautifully into a velvety sauce, while the tender elbow macaroni holds each bite perfectly. This recipe turns a simple childhood favorite into a luscious, crowd-pleasing masterpiece you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Putting together this creamy baked cheddar mac-and-cheese recipe is a straightforward joy. Each ingredient is chosen to build layers of flavor, creamy texture, and a beautiful golden finish that will make your kitchen smell like heaven.

• Elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape for mac-and-cheese, perfectly sized to hold onto cheesy sauce.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Provides the rich, tangy cheesiness that’s the star of the show; divided for sauce and topping.
• Whole milk: Adds luscious creaminess and helps create a smooth cheese sauce.
• Heavy cream: Elevates the sauce to irresistibly rich and silky perfection.
• Unsalted butter: The base for the roux, crucial for developing depth and a velvety texture.
• All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce without overpowering the delicate creamy mouthfeel.
• Salt: Enhances every flavor, balancing the sharpness of the cheddar.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth that wakes up the palate.
• Dry mustard powder: A secret ingredient that intensifies the cheese flavor with a gentle kick.
• Smoked paprika: Imparts a mild smoky undertone and a touch of vibrant color.
• Breadcrumbs (optional): Create a satisfyingly crunchy topping if you love contrast in textures.

How to Make Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that warms up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter to ensure your mac-and-cheese doesn’t stick and makes for an easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

Boil the elbow macaroni just until it’s slightly al dente—firm to the bite. This is key because the pasta will continue cooking during baking and you want it to maintain that perfect chewy texture. Once done, drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Using a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Then whisk in the flour constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This roux is the magic base that thickens your sauce to creamy bliss without lumps.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking vigorously to keep it smooth. Add the heavy cream next, stirring until the mixture thickens and is silky, about 3-5 minutes. This step ensures the sauce is luxuriously creamy and just thick enough.

Step 5: Season the Sauce

Stir in salt, freshly ground black pepper, dry mustard powder, and smoked paprika for complex layers of flavor. Each seasoning plays a vital role—salt lifts the cheese, mustard powder adds depth, and smoked paprika gives a subtle smoky whisper.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Gradually mix in 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar, stirring constantly until it’s melted into a luscious, smooth cheese sauce. This is where the magic really happens, and your kitchen will start smelling amazing.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni into your rich cheese sauce, gently folding until every piece is coated in creamy cheddar goodness. This ensures maximum cheesiness in every bite.

Step 8: Assemble the Dish

Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into your prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top to create a beautifully cheesy crust as it bakes.

Step 9: Add Breadcrumbs (Optional)

If you like a crunchy top, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheddar cheese. This extra layer adds a delightful texture contrast that complements the creamy pasta beneath.

Step 10: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. The house will fill with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone rushing to the table.

Step 11: Cool Before Serving

Allow your creamy baked cheddar mac-and-cheese recipe to cool for a few minutes. This resting time helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes serving much easier and less messy.

How to Serve Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and a fresh note that cuts through the richness. A light dusting of smoked paprika on top gives an extra visual and flavor boost, enhancing its rustic charm.

Side Dishes

This creamy baked cheddar mac-and-cheese recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables. For heartier meals, add a side of tangy coleslaw or garlic bread to balance out the rich and cheesy main star.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this mac-and-cheese in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. You can also stir in cooked bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions before baking to create delicious variations keeping the base recipe just right.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The creamy cheddar flavors deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal just as satisfying.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked mac-and-cheese in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool completely before freezing and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through to bring back that freshly baked texture. Microwaving works too; just add a splash of milk and cover to keep the sauce creamy without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic and essential for the creamy baked cheddar mac-and-cheese recipe’s signature flavor, mixing in cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack can add exciting dimensions to the dish.

Do I need to pre-cook the macaroni before baking?

Yes, cooking the pasta al dente is crucial because the baking time is not enough to fully cook the macaroni. This ensures the pasta remains tender but not mushy after baking.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

This recipe relies heavily on dairy for flavor and texture, but you can experiment using plant-based milk alternatives and dairy-free cheese. Keep in mind, the creaminess and flavor will change significantly.

Why do you add mustard powder and smoked paprika?

Mustard powder brings out the cheese’s sharpness and depth without tasting like mustard, and smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color, elevating the flavor profile beautifully.

Can I skip the breadcrumbs on top?

Definitely! Breadcrumbs are optional and mainly provide a crunchy topping. If you prefer a smoother, creamier finish, you can leave them out without affecting the delicious cheese sauce underneath.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about mastering a rich, creamy baked mac-and-cheese that’s perfectly balanced and golden on top. This Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese Recipe is guaranteed to become your go-to comfort food for cozy nights or whenever you need that cheesy hug. Give it a try, and watch it become a beloved family favorite in no time!

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