Irresistibly Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese Delight

This Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese is a comforting crowd-pleaser that brings loved ones together with its gooey cheese sauce and crispy topping.

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Course: Main Dishes

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Baked Mac and Cheese, cheesy pasta, comfort food, Creamy Baked Cheddar Mac-and-Cheese, Easy Dinner, kid-friendly

Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 35

Cooling Time: 5

Total Time: 50

Servings: servings

Calories: 550kcal

Equipment

9x13 inch baking dish
Large pot
Large saucepan
Whisk

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 ounces elbow macaroni the perfect shape to hold onto the cheese sauce

For the Cheese Sauce

3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese for intense, tangy flavor
2 cups whole milk may substitute with almond milk for dairy-free
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half as a substitute
¼ cup unsalted butter substitute with olive oil for lighter option
¼ cup all-purpose flour gluten-free flour can be used
1 teaspoon salt adjust if using salted butter
½ teaspoon black pepper or cayenne pepper for extra kick
½ teaspoon dry mustard powder can substitute with mustard paste
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika sweet paprika can be used instead

For the Topping

¼ cup breadcrumbs optional, use panko for extra crunch

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter.
Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the elbow macaroni for 6-7 minutes until slightly al dente.
Melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour to create a roux.
Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk while whisking vigorously, then stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and cook for 3-5 minutes until thickened.
Add 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, ½ teaspoon of dry mustard powder, and ¼ teaspoon of smoked paprika, whisking until combined.
Stir in 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well-coated.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top and, if desired, add ¼ cup of breadcrumbs.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is lightly browned.
Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, cook macaroni al dente and whisk continuously when adding milk to avoid lumps.

Nutrition