Main Courses > Casseroles & Bakes > Hearty Baked Dishes > Macaroni and Cheese

Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy and decadent baked mac and cheese recipe. Made with a blend of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan, this dish is guaranteed to be a family favorite. It's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Servings
6-8
Ingredients
  • 1 lb Elbow Macaroni
  • 6 tbsp Butter
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 4 cups Milk
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
  • 4 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese
  • 1 cup Gruyère Cheese
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1/4 tsp Paprika
  • 1/2 cup Bread Crumbs

Cook the Macaroni

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened.

Add the Cheese

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Gruyère cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Combine and Bake

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with bread crumbs (optional). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

Serve

Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Please note: These values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Calories: 250
Protein: 12g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 20g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

For a lighter version, use skim milk and reduced-fat cheese. You can also add vegetables like broccoli or peas to increase the nutritional value.

← Spicy Chorizo Mac and Cheese Bake Vegetarian Baked Ziti with Roasted Vegetables and Creamy Bechamel →

FAQ

  • Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?

    Yes, you can assemble the mac and cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
  • Can I use different types of cheese?

    Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack.
  • Can I add toppings to this mac and cheese?

    Yes, you can add toppings such as bacon, jalapenos, or crispy fried onions.