Go Back
–+ servings
Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese

Irresistible Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese Bliss

A comforting Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese that is creamy, quick to make, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni Cooked al dente.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 3 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese Freshly shredded.
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Whole milk gives a creamy texture.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter For the roux.
  • 4 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Consider gluten-free flour for dietary needs.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground.
  • 1 teaspoon Mustard Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Can substitute with regular paprika.
For Topping (optional)
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Mix with melted butter for crunch.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • large pot
  • medium saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the elbow macaroni until slightly al dente for about 6-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour for about 1-2 minutes until smooth.
  4. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring for 3-5 minutes until thick and creamy.
  5. Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of mustard powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, stirring to combine.
  6. Mix in 3 cups of freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
  7. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring each noodle is well-coated.
  8. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Optionally, sprinkle more cheese on top.
  9. If using, mix 1 cup of breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the mac-and-cheese.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
  11. Let rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 18gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 300mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese and ensure pasta is cooked al dente.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!